CONCERT CHAMBER

Dominion, Volume 27, Issue 9, 5 October 1933, Page 8

CONCERT CHAMBER

Alterations Planned

A LARGER STAGE For theatrical purposes the Wellington Concert Chamber has always been handicapped by its small walled-in stage. The sides of any stage require to be free and open, to allow space for scenic adornment, to provide ample room for entrance and exit, and to allow’ room for the working of effects from the “wings.” This was precisely what the Concert Chamber lacked until about seven or eight years ago, when it was decided to improve the accommodation by building a false proscenium at the edge of a new “apron” or extension of the existing stage. This did provide a little space both on the “prompt” and “0.p.” sides.

At that time it was suggested that a better job could be made by taking away tlie solid sides of the stage altogether, and commandeering space for the stage from the two side dressingrooms. This could be done easily as these walls carry no weight. They comprise simply boards and plaster, and could be demolished in a day. Plans to tins end have been prepared, and It is expected that the alterations will be made within the next few weeks.

Another improvement is the profis ion of cushions for the hard-bottomed Austrian chairs in the auditorium of the Concert. Chamber. These long cushions, each one covering about six or eight chairs, are wool-stuffed and finished in brown hessian. To make for comfort about two inches have been sawn off tlie legs of the chairs, normal height being inade up by the depth of the cushion. The innovation was greatly appreciated by those present at the Concert Chamber la.it evening.

Whether cushions be provided for ground floor chairs of the main Town Hall is a matter to be decided later.