THE THEATRE ROYAL. TO THE EDITOR OF THE EVENING POST.

Evening Post, Volume XXII, Issue 74, 26 September 1881, Page 2

THE THEATRE ROYAL. TO THE EDITOR OF THE EVENING POST.

Sir — I heartily endorse the sentiments contained in a letter feigned "A Constant Playgoer," which appeared in a recent isauo of your paper. There is no doubt whatever that the present Theatre Royal ia no ornament to the city of Wellington. The stalls are in an almost filthy state ; the dresß circle seats are by no means comfortable ; whilst the pit is; simply unbearable. Taken alto* - gether, the ' dirty and faded appearance, of everything inside strikes one on entering in a very remarkable degree. When this place is filled with a largo audience it literally "reeka with noxious" vapours" caused of-""" course by imperfect ventilation. In fact, Sir, it is the worst ventilated theatre in New Zealand. Dante's famed lines have often recurred to my mind, to whioh I take the liberty of making a slight addition to, to suit the present subject— "All hope- or breathing pure wholesome air— abandon, ye who enter here." Wellington in my opinion wants new blood infused into it. A theatre which would do oredit to the city' should be built. I believe a convenient site could be found in Manners' street. All that is wanting is energy of tno ' ' right kind. Building is much cheaper now than it was three years ago, and, if I mistake' not, land also. If a company were started shares would quickly be taken up. Tenders for erection . could then be advertised for, * so that the work might be done, as cheaply, and yet as efficiently da' j)o8-' l eible. Make the price of shares low, say one pound sterling (.£1), in order to be within the reach of everyone. Rich and poor alike would have an equal interest in the work of progression. Then really first-class companies would be eager to come and play in a now theatre, wbioh would do credit to their capabilities, and, at the same time, by its superior accommodation, afford them ample remuneration for their enterprise Trusting that some abler pen than mine will take up this important subject, ; I am, &c, Progress. Wellington, 26th September, 1881.