THE NEW THEATRE.

Press, Volume LXIII, Issue 12933, 12 October 1907, Page 12

THE NEW THEATRE.

— ♦ ... THE PROJECTED OPENING. "The architect proposes but Labour disposes" is b variation of the wellknown proverb that fitly applies to the opening of the new theatre. It had been expected that the opening would take place at tho end of the present mouth, and the first performance was to bo by Mr J. C. Williamson's "Mother Goose" Company, who have the Carnival dates. To that end every nerve was strained by the proprietary, double shifts being worked, but the Fates, in the shape of the scarcity of the particular kind of labour required for the interior decoration, were against them. Double wages were offered, but the pien were not available, and the opening, therefore, cannot take place at the tune hoped. With respect to the edifice itself, it is only when one gvta inside that the completeness of the arrangements and the beauty of the theatre as such come to be fully appreciated. One of tho essential points aimed at by the architects of the most modern theatres in th© large capitals of Europe is the bringing of the audience and the performers as closely into touch as possible by making thp auditorium compact as to area and distance from the stage. This h»» been most satisfactorily accomplished in tho new theatre. The building is so constructed that those on the stage -will lie quite en rapport with their audience, »nd the great desiderata of modern theatres, the ability of the whole of the audience to catch the facial expressions of the actors, and the ability to hear distinctly, have been most thoroughly secured. Yet another important factor in connection with a theatre has also been carefully provided for. This is ability to see the etago distinctly and easily from every part of the house. A trial of this was made yesterday from what appeared to be the least satisfactory pointo, with the result that a full view tof tho stage could he had from anywhere. The ground floor, which will be devoted to stalls, has a good slope. so that each row can see easily over the heads of thoso in front, provided that 'the obtrusive hat" be not present. It has now been arranged that there shall be a sliding roof, so as to afford ample ventilation on a hot Bummer night when the theatre is crowded. Added to this, two circular ■windows on each side of the drees circle, with sliding sashea, will afford plenty of fresh air -without draught. Ample provision, is made for easy access and exit. The entrances to the dTees circle and orchestral etalia are each 12ft wide, and that in the gallery loft, whilst the entrance* of tho different portions of the theatre are kept quite separate. The interior decoration* will be exceedingly handsome. The main colour scheme ie cream, gold, and blue. The subiecte of the panels of the centre dome, which will be painted by a French artist, will be selected from "A Mμsummer Night's Dream." In the important matter of fire escapee ample provision has been made, and though the theatre ie seated to hold 1500, it can be emptied in one minute and * half if required. One noticeable feature that will appeal to the artiste performing in the theatre ie the fact that not only are. the dressing rooms ample in. number and eiee, but all have hot and coki water laid on, and careful provision has been made in the distribution ot the electric lights for effective making up. There are no dressing rooms on the etage proper; the stage iteelf bo ing one expanse. The dressing rooms are off the etage though immediately contiguous, and there is a spacious scene dock and scene store with a room under lock and key for special scenery. The drees circle arrangements are exceedingly complete. Access is gained- by means of easy graded and wide stairs leading into the foyer with * wide balcony overlooking the street beyond. Ample cloak rooms and lavatory accommodation are also provided. There is a slope in the circle and gallery so that those sitting in the rear, seats will be able easily to see over tho heads of those in front. The entrance- and accommodation for the orchestral stalls and stalls also afford , every facility for comfort and convenience. The work in the ceiling which will be in stuoooline, is being carried out by the Carrara Marble Company, who have also furnished the design and will execute the work in connection with the dome. In accordance with the modern design of theatres there. will be. no pit, but a commodious gallery holding 600 persons takes the place of that time-honoured theatrical institution. All the furnishings have been specially selected to match the general colour scheme, and the whole effect when lighted up by electric light should be exceedingly beautiful. Those managers -who have seen the building and had the scheme of decoration explained to them are unanimous in saying that it will be one of the pret--1 tiest and beet appointed theatres in Australasia.