Four-day weekend of celebrations to open Hamer Hall

Arts Centre Melbourne chief executive Judith Isherwood said the ballot was new for the centre and a way to recognise that the $135.8 million spent on the renovations were due to the largesse of the taxpayer.

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''The early vision for the arts centre was that it was to be for the people. [When] it was closed … you could see people going up and rattling doors - it's in such a perfect position on the city's edge. This is about returning it to the people and giving them a reason to go in and explore.''

The two concerts will feature many artists who have performed in the hall, including Eddie Perfect who sang in Melbourne Chorale performances as a teenager.

''The good thing about the hall is that it's an intimidating stage - it is the Melbourne concert hall after all,'' Perfect said.

''It's a great space. Spending money on it is something the hall deserves.''

MSO concertmaster Wilma Smith will lead the Australian National Academy of Music Orchestra to take the new acoustics through their paces.

As well as k.d. lang, engaged exclusively for the event, the concerts include soprano Rachelle Durkin, musical theatre star Caroline O'Connor, and singers Archie Roach and Lior.

The hall's exterior will be lit by lighting designer Martin Kinnane and set designer Brian Thompson will produce a 15-metre installation on the lawn.

Other events include tours, Kylie Minogue and Barry Humphries exhibitions, and entertainment in the newly expanded foyer.

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