Frazer Spence

frazerspence@outlook.com↗

The Drive by Opera is a project that speculates how historic architecture can be a restoration tool for community. Divided over three levels, Ground serves to provide a place where the members of Clifton Hill can stop to relax or hurry on with their day. Differing public spaces provide opportunities to learn, exercise or entertain. Below, the Opera is the backbone of the project, where viewers descend into the earth for a performance. Above, the Superstructure hosts the staff, giving the best view to those whose work oft goes unappreciated. Together, the Shot Tower creates a space for the arts to give back to the community, and allows the community to be inspired by the arts.

Structure for a Theatre

Sunken and open to sky, the auditorium seats provide a joining moment of the three levels within the project: Underground, Ground and Superstructure. Activity occurs on every level, but the hum of community fills the ground plane. Pedestrians can view the stage to see rehearsals, walk around the solar batteries that power the superstructure or find respite along one of the many spaces for rest. There is always something to see.

The Advertisers Eye

From a distant view, the Shot Tower is the only object penetrating the sky. Standing resolute, it serves as a marker for community and drivers on their way to the city. A missed opportunity, the air is filled with a new frontage, keen to be populated with the latest fashions or text. As people pass by, the potential to dream is endless.

Ground Floor Plan

Exhibiting the dense nature of the project, the ground plane of the Drive by Opera invites people to move through the former factory. Along it’s many tracks there are opportunities to stop and reflect or move with haste to finish your journey. For the community, the ground is populated with gyms, playgrounds, vegetation, seating and more amenity, allowing the residents of Clifton Hill to reengage with site and each other.

Champagne and Scooters

The ground is an intersection of communities who come to the Drive by Opera. Before the show commences, patrons can purchase champagne, discuss the latest news and await with anticipation. Drinking from their glass, they are surrounded by young people on bikes, skateboards and roller skates. The hard surfaces encourage adulteration and fast paced activity. Next a cyclist speeds by overhead. There is discomfort but excitement. It’s the pre-show for the opera.

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