Roxy Theatre Celebrates Turning Up the Heat

July 16, 2007

The Roxy has a number of reasons to celebrate and it’s ready to kick up its heels. Launching its season of live performances in August, The Roxy promises a fabulous line-up of live shows which includes an outstanding combination of music, theatre, comedy, bush poetry and film.
 
The Roxy is committed to presenting quality performances at the highest level and the forthcoming season is no exception. Highlights include Wilde Tales, a dynamic interpretation of Oscar Wilde’s short tales on Saturday August 4.
 
Renowned musical ensemble Monsieur Camembert will present an unforgettable musical feast on August 25. The acclaimed bush poet Warren Fahey, who is considered one of Australia’s most notable folklorists, is set to appear on September 15. You’ll be guaranteed to fall in love while falling in the aisles at Bangers and Mash, a hilarious comedy full of melodrama, music and song on October 17. A Night at the Opera, which includes a performance of The Magic Flute by OzOpera on October 23, is not to be missed.
 
On Saturday August 4, continuing the festivities of the Orange Festival, The Roxy will officially launch its air conditioning system and celebrate the completion of the roof project.
 
Over the summer, the roof on The Roxy was replaced and insulated and a reverse cycle air conditioning system installed, making the venue operationally viable for twelve months of the year.   
 
The Gwydir Shire Council became aware of the necessity to upgrade the existing facilities given the increased demand for the venue. While the venue has proved popular for its cinema screenings and high quality live performances, it is the ever increasing number of conferences, seminars, meetings and private functions that prompted the Council to undertake the refurbishment.
 
While the Council’s contribution has been significant, the project has been made possible thanks to the generous assistance of the Department of Transport and Regional Services, Arts NSW and the NSW Premier’s Department, whose invaluable contribution guaranteed the execution of the project.
 
Work on the project was completed at the end of March which has provided the opportunity to test the effects of the newly insulated roof, as well as the capacity of the air conditioning and heating to their maximum potential. The effects are outstanding and have proved to be extremely satisfactory. During the recent production of the North West Theatre Company, when temperatures outside were exceptionally cold, the system more than lived up to expectations, providing an extremely comfortable and welcoming environment in the theatre where patrons were able to enjoy the show in heated comfort. 
 
The benefits of installing the system are enormous. In ensuring the continuous operation of the venue for twelve months of the year, The Roxy’s future as the most prestigious entertainment and function venue in the North West has been secured.
 
And so the Gwydir Shire Council is set to mark this milestone with an official launch on Saturday August 4 at 5.00pm
 
Attending the launch will be Richard Torbay, State Member for Northern Tablelands, Tony Windsor, Federal Member for New England, Michael Goss, Program Manager, Capital Infrastructure and Museums, Arts NSW as well as Cr Mike Montgomery, Chair of the Area Consultative Committee. A representative from the Department of Transport and Regional Services who is yet to be announced, will also attend. 
 
An invitation to attend this significant event is extended to all members of the community. As The Roxy belongs to the community, we hope that the community in turn will lend its support to toast this new phase in The Roxy’s life.  
 
The launch will be followed by the stunning live performance of Wilde Tales commencing at 8:00pm. This magical production from State of Play theatre company takes you into the extraordinary imagination of Oscar Wilde with a dynamic interpretation of his collection of short tales. Prepare yourself for a wonder-filled theatre experience that combines Wilde’s renowned wit with original music, creative and colourful design and unique staging.   Wilde Tales is both humorous and moving and filled with Wilde’s insights into life and love.
 
Wilde Tales doesn’t just appeal to adults but is a show for everyone, from 12 years old to grandparents. The profoundly beautiful stories recounted can be enjoyed by all, and as Wilde himself suggested are “for those who have kept the childlike faculties of wonder and joy”.
 
Wilde Tales is a touring production by State of Play, a highly respected theatre company that brings together a creative team comprising some of Sydney’s most talented artists. State of Play create vibrant and accessible works, truly exciting theatre at its best.
 
Tickets to this stunning production are bound to sell quickly and are available atBingara Tourist Information Centre tel: 6724 0066. Adults $25, Conc. $20, Child (up to 15 yrs) $15, Family (2 adults plus two children) $70, Groups of 20 or more $20. All enquiries toSandy McNaughton, Roxy Manager, mob: 0427 241582 or e-mail roxy@gwydir.nsw.gov.au
 
Compliments of The Bingara Advocate