NEW THEATRE PLAN

Auckland Star, Volume LXV, Issue 256, 29 October 1934, Page 9

NEW THEATRE PLAN

TO COST £25,000.

REPERTORY SOCIETIES.

SITE IN UPPER QUEEN STREET

A decision to support a proposal to build a repertory theatre in Auckland was made by a widely representative meeting of dramatic interests held yasterday. The scheme was drawn up by Mr. .7. D. Swan,, president of the Little Theatre Society. Colonel W. B. Brittain presided at the meeting.

It was stated at the meeting that for some time past dramatic societies in Auckland had felt the need of a repertory theatre. The Concert Chamber was unsuitable tor any big productions, and in addition the acoustics were bad. The proprietors of His Majesty's Theatre were not able to promise definite dates in advance which caused considerable difficulty in arranging for the production of [days.

The idea was outlined by Mr. Swan, who said that it was proposed to form a limited liability company. All those interested in dramatic art would oe invited to support the company, which would also go to the public;for subscription. It was estimated that about £25,000 would be necessary. Four of the directors would be representatives of the Operatic Society, the Little Theatre Society, the Grafton Society and the British Drama League. Rough plans of the proposed theatre, which would be built on a site in Upper Queen Street, had been drawn itp by Mr. Swan, and were shown to the meeting. They indicated that the theatre would embody the latest ideas in seating, visibility, acoustics and stage ami lighting arrangements. Statistics were quoted to show the need for such a theatre in Auckland. There were no fewer than .'iS dramatic societies in the Auckland province affiliated to the British Drama League, and 210 dramatic performances had been given during the past year. Among the societies represented at the meeting were the Operatic Society,' the British Drama League, the Auckland Little Theatre Society, the Grafton Society, the University Dramatic Society, the Winchenden Players, the. St. Cuthbcrt's Old Girls' Dramatic Society and (lie Enterprise Club.