PRINCE EDWARD THEATRE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIII, Issue 19379, 14 July 1926, Page 8

PRINCE EDWARD THEATRE.

MANY ATTRACTIVE FEATURES, PUBLIC OPENING ON FRIDAY. A new entrance, which in architecture, the materials in which it is finished, and general artistic effect, will compare favourably with any theatre entrance' in Auckland, forms the most prominent feature of a transformation which has been effected of the former King's Theatre, Karangahape Road. It has been renamed the Prince Edward Theatre, and it will be publicly opened under its new name on Friday evening, when a specially-selected programme will be screened. theatre is under the direction of Fuller-Hay ward Theatres, and Bud Atkinson, who have spared no cost to make the new entrance, giving direct access to Karangahape Road, fully worthy of the building, which is in many respects one of the finest theatres in the city. For the strip of land required for the entrance the highest price ever paid for a frontage to Karangai ape Road was given, and this, together with the cost of the extensive alterations, made the expanse of the new entrance considerably greater than the original cost of tha Whole theatre. - The entrance is an imposing one, Two short flights of stairs lead to an upper and a lower foyer, both of which are spacious and attractively furnished. Mosaic floors, marble stairs, and oak panelling enhance the appearance of entrance and foyers, A large leadlight dome is let into the ceiling of the upper foyer, and leadlights are set in the walls in a number of places. These will all be lighted artificially at night. The architecture is of plain classical style, and the furnishings are Jacobean. Numerous palms and pot-plants add to the beauty of the surroundings. An elaborate system of flood-lighting will add to the attractiveness of the entrance. On the walls and ceiling the shading of lights of different colours will produce effects of unusual beauty. The interior of the theatre has been renovated and new - electrical installations have been fitted. Coloured floodlights will be projected upon the ceiling here also, and some beautiful effects should be obtainable. Alterations have been made to the stage, and a new setting in imitation grey} marble has biien introduced. The Prince Edward Theatre has a seating capacity of 1550, which is second only to the Majestic. Pictures will be screened continuously, and there will be a full orchestra at the evening sessions. An innovation in regard to prices will be introduced to New Zealand for the first time, the charge for admission being the same for all parts of the house. The architect for the alterations waa Mr. D. B. Patterson and the contractor, Mr. C. A. Lee.