WANGANUI'S PLAYHOUSE

Dominion, Volume 10, Issue 2929, 15 November 1916, Page 10

WANGANUI'S PLAYHOUSE

A HINT. Three years ago 'a fino theatre was . erected in tho Avenue, Wungamii—a splendid modem theatro on tho best sito in tho town. Now, thought tlio play-going public, wo will bp able to sco productions as they aro in tho cities, and much satisfaction was expressed. ' But, alas, for their hopes, tho fine theatro has been given over to tho silont drama of the pictures, and travelling companies havo either to play in the Municipal Theatre, which hag its being in a dark, lonely, back street, or cut out "Wangarmi altogether. For a town of tho sizo of AVanganui, this theatro is not at all a bad theatre. It is adequate for all shows save very big productions employing a large number of people. But why does not the Borough Council try to relieve tho interior appearance of the auditorium ? At present it is depressing to a degree. Tho dull level dark red of tho walls is only relieved by three ordinary house windows on either side of the dress circle, without a single panel to relieve the deadly redness that extends up to the ceiling. Tho ceiling takes the form of an old-fashioned dome, the interior of which is tinted like a cheap bon-bon, whilst tho outer part is covered with a negative-toned 'back bedroom paper. Tlio playhouso should be a place of cheer. Tho decorations should be of an enlivening character, with something in tho scheme to indicate that it is a templo dedicated to Tbespis, and not an enlarged bar-parlour. The proscenium, at which playgoers nuist stare, is usually made a medium for something ornate and symbolic of the histrionic muses. This one was painted at some remote period, but the relentless hand of time has besmirched the original tint, and left it plain dirty. It is all very depressing. Evidently the Borough Council does not appreciate the fact that a pleasing and artistic decorative scheme would be conducive to play-going, and that would increase tho number of lettings during tho year. So, after all, it is a business proposition to make the place brighter.