Page 17 - CR31R.pdf

H E
N A TION

O F

esty’s Theatre

SA Y B Y KEVIN ADAMS
Outside, the original 1900s shop-front facades and the
veranda and its signs have been repaired and restored. The
spacious entry foyer with its magnificent 1934 terrazzo
floor has been re-cut and polished, and there is easy entry
to new café and bar areas.
The grand marble staircase leads to the
impressive Dress-Circle foyer and further bar
and corporate entertaining areas.
The superb, 1625 seat, auditorium has
been spruced up and its elegant silver-
plated lighting fixtures carefully restored,
but most of the budget has been spent
backstage.
The vast reconstructed stagehouse is
now some nine stories high and features
new fly floors, loading galleries, and a
new flying system with 91 lines
including 4 panorama bars. The stage is
also deeper, with a grid of floor traps the full depth
of the stage for flexibility. The proscenium is now
wider and higher and the orchestra pit is also
larger. The power system has been completely
upgraded and new theatrical lighting, data and
theatre communications infrastructure installed. In
short, Her Majesty’s can now handle the high-
tech sets and equipment that are synonymous
with contemporary theatre.
There have been many changes throughout
the 116-year history of this wonderful old
theatre, and we are so pleased to welcome her
back - long may “Her Majesty” reign!
Condensed from a historical text written by
Caths member, Frank Van Straten OBE, for the
May 2002 Re-opening Program.
Used With Permission.
Contemporary photographs
taken by Kevin Adams.
Our sincere thanks to the
wonderful team at Her
Majesty’s Theatre.

CINEMARECORD 2002 17