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Revision as of 08:47, 16 December 2024 by Traumnovelle (talk | contribs)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)The King's Theatre is a historic theatre in Stratford, New Zealand, constructed in 1917 it was the first theatre in the Southern Hemisphere to showcase sound film. It is registered as category 1 building by Heritage New Zealand.
Description
The King's Theatre is the largest building on the main street of Stratford. The façade is painted burgundy, cream, and gold.
History
Stratford Pictures and Amusements Ltd was formed in 1916 by a group of a businessmen. They got Grierson and Aimer to design a three-storey theatre. It was built in 1917 and opened on 31 December 1917. The theatre showed the first sound film in 1925, the first screening of one in the Southern hemisphere.
In 1991 a trust, the Stratford District Theatre Trust, was formed with the intent of purchasing the theatre and restoring it. Many local organisations have provided sponsorships, grants, and materials to assist in the restoration work and operating costs. In 2024 it was registered as a category 1 building by Heritage New Zealand.
References
- ^ Martin, Nicola (Summer 2024). Dunlop, Anna (ed.). "Work of art". Heritage New Zealand. No. 175. Heritage New Zealand. pp. 12–13. ISSN 1175-9615.
- Wagstaff, Blyss (9 September 2023). "The King's Theatre". Heritage New Zealand.