However, Mayor Bob Manning said an outdoor party will cater for those who can’t get inside.

“While there will be a limited number of public tickets made available for the CPAC opening the events in Munro Martin Parklands will be open for all.

“Part of the show in CPAC will be live streamed across to the Parklands, but there will also be an outdoor event in its own right,” Councillor Manning said.

Florence Street will be closed to traffic, making way for a range of pop-up stalls by Cairns restaurants and food trucks as part of Meet Eat Repeat.

Next door, in Munro Martin Parklands, a free music event will feature multi-instrumentalist and composer James Morrison with Jazz under the Jade Vines.

He’ll be supported by vocalist Hetty Kate and local bands.

“With multiple food options, licensed bars and free entertainment, this will be the perfect place to celebrate the opening of our Cairns Performing Arts Centre,” Councillor Manning said.

Both the Mayor and the Minister for Emergency Services, Craig Crawford, said they are confident that any issues with the safety of the building's cladding will be mitigated in time for the opening. 

Tickets have also gone on sale for several shows to be staged in the Cairns Performing Arts Centre in early 2019.

Councillor Manning said the first will be a performance of Wicked by the Cairns Choral Society.

“It’s fitting that our local stars should be the first to shine in this brand new venue.”

Other acts include comedians Judith Lucy and Denise Scott, the indigenous dance ensemble Bangarra, the Ocean Film Festival, the North Queensland Chamber Orchestra and Box Jelly Theatre Company’s After Dinner.

The popular Morning Melodies will also launch its 2019 season at CPAC.

To stay informed of upcoming events, sign up to the CPAC newsletter via the website.