The Return Of Theatre Royal

BY RENEE DALLOW

There is nothing quite like live theatre and what better time to revive the theatre scene than right now? Sydney’s Theatre Royal is still in the process of being carefully and tastefully restored and refurbished with the original detail and design still present.

“The Theatre Royal is really suited for many different shows. We have done so much work on the refurbishment including heightening the ceiling for a new air conditioning system, adding new women’s lavatories and we have added new bars in the foyer,” said Tim McFarlane, executive chairman of Trafalgar Entertainment. “There is also accessible seating for the disabled alongside a new lift to connect the levels.”

Harry Seidler designed the entrance to the theatre. A modernist circular design, which has been upgraded, and now features clear glass all round so that passers by can see right into the grand foyer. “We wanted that connection to the street.” added McFarlane. The theatre will also retain its modernist ceiling designed by Italian architect Pier Nervi, who also designed the MLC centre. “We have put back Nervi’s beautiful sculpture, Mercator, which again hangs from the ceiling and is very visible through the clear glass of the entrance.” 

The Theatre, is preparing to open it’s doors very soon with it’s first big production being, Jagged Little Pill, with Natalie Bassingthwaighte and music by Alanis Morissette in December. That will then be followed by Girl From The North Country starring Lisa McCune.

These musicals both deal with family divides. The former is one of the most Tony Award nominated shows of all time. Following will be a return to the grand old musicals of the 50s with American In Paris, originally a film, with Gene Kelly and Leslie Carron.

Trafalgar Entertainment is a company that produces as well and is co- producing Jagged Little Pill. So we can expect many more new and exciting shows from this gem of the Theatre establishment.