SMOKING IN THEATRES.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume LIII, 11 April 1908, Page 5

SMOKING IN THEATRES.

HOW THE PRIVILEGE IN LONDON IS APPRECIATED.

Smoking is now permitted in the auditoriums of two of the suburban theatres, the Shakespeare at Clapham and the Lyric at Hammersmith. At the latter establishments this privilege has been in force since Boxing Day. “Smoking is evidently much appreciated by our patrons,” said Mr Jennings, the manager, to a Daily Chronicle reporter. At all events, our receipts show an increase of 35 per cent., which we regard as a favorable indication Jhat we have done the right thing in permitting smoking. We have always contended that if smoking was allowed in music halls it should be allowed in theatres. Here everything in the auditorium is fireproof, so that there is no danger. But we have noted that everybody is very careful. The smokers are mainly found in the pit and gallery, but we have a good number every evening in the stalls and circle. Happily, our ventilation system is perfect, so that no fumes from tobacco remain in the building. Over the proscenium frame there is an immense shaft which, so to speak, sucks up. the smoke and so clears the atmosphere, and round the pit and gallery there are numerous ventilators.”

“It is. impossible to say,” remarked Mr Dudley Bennett, “how many persons availed themselves of the privilege in'the pit and gallery, the parts of the house where it was only allowed, but quite two-thirds of the men were enjoying cigars or cigarettes.”

“An admirable scheme of ventilation prevented the occupants of the stalls and circle being annoyed by the smoke. Believing,' however, that the patrons to the more expensive parts «f the house would also like to smoke, I am arranging for their tastes to be consulted, every visitor during the next two of three weeks being asked his opinion. In this theatre everything is fire-proof curtains, carpets, seats, etc.”