A new performing arts centre at Hamilton Secondary College is the standout feature of a $9.23 million facility upgrade, officially opened today.

The centre includes a 152-seat theatre, giving students an opportunity to showcase their talents to the community, along with two music learning areas and music practice rooms.

The centre also includes a multipurpose space incorporating a planetarium, which is only the second permanent planetarium in South Australia and the first in Adelaide’s southern suburbs.

The planetarium will help the school continue to grow the Hamilton Space Academy and build on the strong STEM focus the school is known for.

Refurbishment of the school’s existing resource centre has created a dedicated space for its senior students which opens out to a new plaza.

The redevelopment project, which was completed in December 2021, also includes a new canteen for students and upgrades to the school façade along Marion Road.

"Our new performing arts centre, including the planetarium, has opened up a wealth of opportunities for our students across study areas as broad as music, performance and STEM," said  Hamilton Secondary College Principal Peta Kourbelis.

"We are incredibly proud of these modern and contemporary facilities, and we look forward to seeing our students up on stage showcasing their talents for years to come.

"For students enrolled in the Hamilton Space Academy, having access to the planetarium gives them a unique learning opportunity to develop their skills as they consider a future career in the space industry."