THEATRE ROYAL

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXIX, Issue 20063, 21 March 1935, Page 8

THEATRE ROYAL

PLAN FOR EXTENSIVE REMODELLING ONE BIG ENTRANCE Within a very short period alterations which should very considerably enhance the appearance and improve the value of buildings in Stafford Street will be carried into effect. These include the remodelling of the Theatre Royal, and the remodelling of a block of shops on the south side of the Theatre. In an interview with a representative of “The Tirnaru Herald’* last night, Mr Errol Fuller, general manager of Tirnaru Theatres, stated that in addition to the reseating of the Theatre Royal, which was practically completed yesterday, plans were also under way for an extensive remodelling scheme, which would embrace an entirely new entrance to the Theatre. Plans are at present being prepared by Mr Herbert Hall to bring the Theatre right up-to-date. Part of the scheme includes a large main foyer embracing about 35 feet of frontage, giving access to both the stalls and the dress circle. Hitherto there have been three entrances, one for the pit, one for the stalls and a third one for the circle. With the work of remodelling these three entrances will disappear, to be replaced by one big entrance which should very considerably improve the appearance of the theatre, the other appointments of which are considered to be the equal of any theatre in New Zealand. The new seating arrangements have already been responsible for much favourable comment, the Genoa velvet covered seats in the circle being a big improvement on the previous accommodation. For many years the circle railing has borne a velvet covering, but this also Is to be removed, to be replaced by polished wood. Another improvement which has been effected in the theatre itself has been the placing of a wide orange band across the big dropcurtain, the result being a striking effect. So far as the theatre is It is expected that the plans will be completed towards the end of the month, and the actual work will be commenced in the very near future. It was also ascertained last night, and confirmation of the fact was given by Mr H. H. Fraser, a trustee in the Gunn estate, which owns a block of shops south of the theatre, that extensive remodelling of these is to be carried out almost immediately. When the whole of the work is completed, a very marked difference should be noticeable in this locality, especially as it is understood that there is every likelihood of other property owners in the vicinity putting into effect similar work.