Many know the Glasshouse in Port Macquarie as being a place of entertainment and fun, but have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes?
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In June alone, more than 26,000 people visited the Glasshouse taking in exhibitions and shows, but on a guided tour locals and tourists alike can get a sneak peak at how the magic happens.
From working the bar, ticketing and behind the scenes, to installing exhibitions and organising children’s games, Lucy Pascale has seen it all and as tour guide she said the Glasshouse is a magical place.
“I have worked at the Glasshouse since it opened in 2009 and I have been lucky enough to do a variety of things here over that time,” Ms Pascale said.
“We have so many visitors each year who see the exhibitions or the shows we put on, but in reality there are a large number of workers behind the scenes making it all possible.
“From the shape of the building, to the materials the walls are made from and the design of our theatres, everything has been crafted that way for a reason.
“And being a tour guide means I am able to share that with curious members of the public and show them how the magic happens.”
Ms Pascale said that her favourite thing about being a tour guide is being able to share the building with people.
“When they were doing the concept designs for the building our local history was taken into account and that is why the outside is shaped like a curved boat,” she said.
“The huge glass windows are at certain angles to capture as much of the natural sunlight as possible but also to keep the building as energy efficient as we can.
“It is great when we take people on a tour into the basement and show them the loading dock, the dressing rooms and letting the groups walk out onto the main theatre stage.
“I think people get a great appreciation for the building when they understand and see just how much goes on behind the scenes.”
She said curious people always ask some curly questions and that is great.
“Coming on a tour people want to learn as much as they possibly can about the building so it is always great when I have to think about an answer.
“This week we have had lots of people interested the history of the site before it was the Glasshouse and so it is always great when we can show people how we have preserved some of the history.
“Other great questions are usually when we are on stage and people ask about the lighting and stage equipment.
