THE ARCADIA THEATRE.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Issue 1262, 25 June 1914, Page 36

THE ARCADIA THEATRE.

A SUCCESSFUL OPENING

The opening of the new theatre took place on Thursday evening last, when, at the invitation of the directors, the Arcadia was filled with Auckland's leading citizens. Mr. George Reid, in the absence of the Mayor, during the course of a brief opening speech, stated that the management intended to procure the best films possible for the public benefit, and entertainment, and he felt sure their enterprise would meet with every success. The films screened during the evening were very clearly shown, and included Arabian types of travel, a very fine set of scenic pictures. “Plain Jane” and “The Gambler’s Oath” supplied the dramatic portion of the pictures, whilst the “Two Messages” and “The Awakening of Snakeville” filled the bill in the comedy portion to everyone’s satisfaction. The orchestra, under the direction of Mr. Chas. Thompson, provided the accompanying music and lent additional pleasure to the evening. There will be a change of programme every Monday and Thursday. A few particulars regarding the construction of the theatre will be of interest. The company was promoted by Messrs. George Alexander, Donald

Alexander, and James Christie, all of Auckland. Messrs. A. S. O’Connor and J. Christie were the architects, and they have given the company a building to be proud of. The theatre is situated next to the Bon Marche, Karangahape Road, Newton. It has 15ft. frontage to Karangahape Road and then widens to 40ft. There is a back frontage to North Street. A good-sized stage has been provided for, so that the building can be used tor other purposes, as well as a picture theatre. A new idea in theatre ceilings has been adopted. In the ceiling all the beams are exposed, with dark-stained trimmers spaced between the woodwork. The plaster slabs are fixed on top of the beams and trimmers. In the entrance hall there is oak panelling, with a deep frieze and inset mirrors. Accommodation has been provided for two confectionery stalls, ladies’ cloak rooms and lavatories. The building is lighted by electricity all through, and nas seating accommodation for over 1000 people. The directors propose to run a continuous programme of the best pictures from 2 to 5 and from 7 to 10.15. Mr. George Alexander, well and favourably known to most of the picture proprietors throughout New Zealand, will manage the theatre, and Mr. Donald Alexander will be the operator.