It has today been confirmed that The Leaper Foundation, led by Mrs Jenny Leaper OAM and Dr John Leaper OAM, has pledged a $5 million gift to Arts Centre Melbourne’s redevelopment of the Theatres Building, a major initiative known as Reimagining Arts Centre Melbourne. This donation is set to be among the most significant philanthropic contributions in the organisation’s history.
The Reimagining Arts Centre Melbourne project aims to revitalise the Theatres Building, located under the Spire, with improvements including an expanded loading dock, a new rehearsal space and studio, and enhanced accessibility. Upgrades to the State Theatre will include accessible seating in the Stalls for the first time, two new Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant lifts, and a more accessible Stage Door.
In recognition of the Leaper Foundation’s generosity, The Pavilion, the flagship function space in the Theatres Building, will be renamed The Leaper Family Pavilion from 1 January 2025. The Leaper family has a longstanding history of supporting Arts Centre Melbourne, particularly its Children and Families program, which provides inclusive arts experiences for children and families, including those living with a disability. The Pavilion has frequently hosted intimate and accessible performances, and the program has grown significantly due to the Leaper Foundation’s support.
Reflecting on their motivation for supporting the redevelopment, Mrs Jenny Leaper OAM and Dr John Leaper OAM stated:
This beautiful building was developed many years ago, but it’s now time for reinvigoration. If we can contribute to the future, then we’re paying some of the debt to the pioneers who created this space for us. This is our family commitment: to developing the arts through imagination, inspiration and innovation. It’s this notion that underpins our support for Arts Centre Melbourne, bringing people from all cultural and economic backgrounds to one gathering place under the Spire
Karen Quinlan AM, CEO of Arts Centre Melbourne, also acknowledged the importance of the Leaper family’s contribution:
We are honoured to receive such a generous gift from the Leaper family – one of the most significant philanthropic gifts Arts Centre Melbourne has ever received. Our donors play a pivotal role in the impact and legacy of our work and share our commitment to enriching the lives of our creative industries and the Victorian community
Arts Centre Melbourne is committed to increase activation and participation for children, young people and their families. In 2024 alone, 18,000 visitors have participated in programming supported by the Leaper’s major giving – we’re so pleased to be able to create such life-changing experiences for our audiences
