A HANDSOME BUILDING

Waikato Times, Volume 115, Issue 19270, 31 May 1934, Page 15

A HANDSOME BUILDING

LAVIBH DECORATIONS. TESTS OP PLANT SUCCESSFUL. From the appealing but plain symmetrical design of the 'exterior of the theatre strong contrast is afforded by the attractively decorated interior. The single lioor, capable of seating about 850 persons Is reached by a short flight oi stairs which lead into the centre of the building. Above and below, on the sloping floor, is the modern seating accommodation, ' while, facing the visitor as he enters the hall, is the draped screen with its varied lighting effects in a veritable rainbow of colours. The interior decoration in its ornate design is shown up at its best by well-placed lighting, while the arched proscenium, similar to that erected in the Regent and Plaza Theatres, Auckland, Is again on an elaborate* scale. The Ballroom. Under the main floor lies the ballroom. Of commodious dimensions, it is capable of providing accommodation' for 150 couples, and will no doubt prove a popular venue for dancing and parties. Nearby a coffee stall, together with a comfortably furnished lounge, will minister to the comfort of patrons, and the innovation of aftertheatre suppers will be a welcome addition to the evening programmes. A system of regulated air temperatures has been arranged, and it will be possible to alter the device according to the seasonal conditions prevailing. In, the warmer weather cool air will be.-.constantly flowing through the budding, while during the colder season warm air will be diffused throughout the theatre. An Intimate Theatre. To some the theatre may appear small. But it is small for a purpose. Intimacy is an essential trend in modern theatre architecture, and so with its single, though commodious floor, the State has embodied this principle which is being brought into operation throughout all the leading countries in the world. The seating is of appealing design and provides the latest in comfort, while the screen drapings, flys and curtains, displayed at their best by a galaxy of secreted lights, considerably enhance the mural tonings and effects. Tests of Plant. Rigorous tests have been carried out with the equipment, and since the first experiments were made with the sound apparatus on Monday evening steady progress In finalising trials has been made. Everything has been completed in readiness for the opening programme. The theatre was erected by the Avalon Trust Company, of which- Mr V/. Goodfellow is the governing director. The box plans are steadily filling, and it is anticipated that, as in other centres, hundreds will be turned away on the opening night.