Building a Theatre

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 240, 11 July 1928, Page 7

Building a Theatre

The Principal Contractors

Messrs. J. I. Julian and Son, Ltd., Bank of New Zealand Building, Manners Street, Wellington, and at Auckland and New Plymouth, are responsible for the construction of several important buildings in- Wellington at the present time. This firm was entrusted with the building of the Kilbirnie Kinema, which is regarded as the finest example of a suburban theatre in New Zealand. Built throughout of brick and concrete, the new theatre is absolutely fireproof.. Although .. seating accommodation has been provided for 1200 patrons, ample space is provided between the various rows of seats, and wide passages should guard against undue congestion, even in a “full house.” The building has been designed on classic lines, and the interior has been artistically embellished by a modern treatment of ceiling, walls, and proscenium. One of the striking features of the theatre is the particularly wide roof span of 85 feet. As can be seen from the photograph reproduced in this issue, the absence of columns not only adds to the appearance of the building as a whole, but enables patrons in any part J of the theatre to obtain a clear view of the screen. The construction of this particularly difficult section of the work has been very successfully overcome, the necessary support being obtained by seven steel strusses.

With a frontage of 88 feet and a depth of 136 feet, the building presents a solid and attractive appearance. Smart-looking shops flank either

side of the main entrance, and massive doors of bevelled plate-glass open into the main entrance of the theatre itself. This entrance has been designed on generous lines, and occupies a space of 22ft. x 26ft. Artistically tiled, it is in keeping with the general apiiSarance of the theatre, and leads to the vestibule lounge, whilch covers an area of 50ft. x 20ft. A wide stairway leads, to the dress-circle, which is fitted with the latest de luxe chairs, and b<gjitifully finished throughput.

The latest system of steam heating has been installed, and this provides ample heat to keep the theatre cosy in all weathers. The warm summer lights have not been overlooked, however, and an efficient method of ventilation will ensure a constant supply of fresh air at all times.

Every possible convenience has been provided, and patrons will find that the Kilbirnie Kinema compares very favourably with the principal city theatres of New Zealand. Messrs. Julian and Son, Ltd., have constructed a highclass theatre, which marks still another forward step in the progress of the Eastern Suburbs.

Messrs. J. T. Julian and Son, Ltd., were also the builders of the following theatres:—St. James, Auckland; Regent, Wellington; Everybody’s, Auckland; Paramount, Wellington; Majestic. Auckland; New Opera House, Christchurch; Opera House, New Plymouth; Theatre Royal, Christchurch, and contractors for the New Auckland Railway Station.