FINE ARTS CENTRE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23221, 15 December 1938, Page 16

FINE ARTS CENTRE

CENTENNIAL SCHEME S! SUPPORT FOR PROPOSAL MAIN AUCKLAND MEMORIAL Unanimous support of a fine arts centre as the main Auckland metropolitan Centennial memorial was accorded by a meeting of about 70 representatives of musical, dramatic and other organisations held in the Graftor Library Hall last night. The meeting was convened by Mr. R A Singer, who presided "This meeting is called for the purpose of considering and supporting the proposal sponsored by the Mayor of Auckland that the main Centennial memorial should consist of a fine arts centre," Mr. Singer said. "Such ft memorial would supply the most urgent needs of the city of Auckland and all its environs. "Properly-erected buildings to house the city art gallery, to provide a habitation for all musical and similar activities, together with a place ;>) assembly where plays concerts and operas nmt lie adequately produced, are insistent requirements," he continued. "There is no hall or theatre in the city or suburbs in any way fitting for these purposes. The hopeless discomfort and inconvenience of the present facilities and their bad acoustics are notorious." In reply to a question Mr. Singer said lie did not know the cost of the enterprise, or where the money was to come from. If, however, Wellington, could have a worthy art gallery and a new library, then surely Auckland could erect a fine arts centre. He considered it certain that a Government subsidy would be available. The meeting carried the following resolution: —"That this meeting of representatives of musical, dramatic and other art organisations approves of and supports the proposal that the main Auckland Centennial memorial shall consist of a fine arts centre comprising the public art gallery, a suitable assembly hall or theatre, and facilities for the cultivation of the musical, dramatic and other arts."