MORE than 500 members of the Bendigo community have performed on the new Ulumbarra stage during its opening weekend.
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Captial Venues and Events manager David Lloyd said the Light Up the Sky concert was a great showcase of the Bendigo region's talent.
"(On Friday we saw some of Victoria's great talent and recognised the Dja Dja Wurrung and Saturday had a myriad of community groups and people using the space," he said.
"It showed what talent is on offer in the community."
Mr Lloyd said Friday night opening was not only well received but moving for some people.
"Some people thought it was one of the best things they have seen and it made a very emotional mark on Ulumbarra by recognising the Dja Dja Wurrung," he said.
"It was an amazing feeling to have an audible and tangible buzz in the theatre.
"To see it completely full of people from the community was very special."
Saturday and Sunday provided even more chances for people to get a look at the completed theatre.
The weekend was headlined by the Light UP the Sky concert as well as world-renowned Australia trumpter James Morrison.
"People were able to get a sneak peek of every singe space," Mr Lloyd said.
"It was a real opportunity for people to explore."
On Sunday the community celebrations continued with guided tours, free entertainment on pop-up stages and the Trove Maker's Market.
"With the market in the courtyard it was great to see the external of the building on show as well as the internal," Mr Lloyd said.
"I think not only the theatre but also the recreational amenities that have been developed through the outdoor asset are great in their own respect."
The theatre shows no sign of slowing down with comedians Ross Noble and Kitty Flanagan and The 26 Storey Treehouse performing at the new venue during its first week.
Ulumbarra has more than 170 events booked in for its first year of operation.
"We knew there would be a demand for the space but no one imagined we would have the take up we've had with no signs of a drop at our existing venue," Mr Lloyd said.