Theatre Royal kicks up its heels (and chucks out its old roof)

Sarah Burdekin (left) with Sue from front of house, was delighted by the funding announcement.

Castlemaine’s premier arts and movie venue has received a $150,000 Federal grant for restoration works. Federal Member for Bendigo Steve Gibbons announced the funding at the theatre yesterday morning.

The funding, from the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts means the Theatre Royal can replace its exit stairs and goldrush-era roof, and make improvements to the building to bring it into compliance with current building regulations.

Steve Gibbons said the work had been funded from the Government’s Heritage Projects (Jobs Fund).

“I’m very pleased the Federal Government has been able to contribute to the preservation of one of Castlemaine’s iconic landmarks.”

“I understand that the Theatre Royal is the oldest continually operating theatre on the Australian mainland and has been providing entertainment since 1852.

“The theatre is an important part of Castlemaine’s heritage and has been a vital community asset for more than 150 years.”

Mr Gibbons said Labor Government had provided $60 million for heritage projects as part of its $650 million Jobs Fund.

“As well as heritage benefits, this investment in Australia’s historic, Indigenous and natural heritage is providing employment and economic stimulus, particularly in areas experiencing high unemployment.”

Sarah Burdekin, who runs the theatre with her partner David Stretch, was obviously delighted with the funding announcement.

‘It’s a great relief,’ she said today.

‘It means we can get on with the business of running the business.’

Manager David Stretch said it was a great result for the theatre.

‘We’re pleased the Federal Government has recognised the enormous contribution the venue has made to the cultural life of the town,’ he said.

The funding will cover all the essential safety issues, and make it safe and watertight.

‘While the grant provides no direct financial benefit to the extremely challenging business, it does allow us to carry out essential works, which will make the building a safer place for the community to enjoy for many years to come,’ Mr Stretch said.

He said the application process for the funding was rigourous, and management acknowledged and thanked the many individuals who contributed to the application and its success: Kir Larwill, David Bannear, Kynan Sutherland, Stuart McLennan, Deb Wardle and other members of the public who showed their support over the last 12 months.

‘We were humbled by the support shown by the local community for our application,’ he said.

‘We received over 500 letters of support, more than 2500 signatures on a petition and over 1200 people joined a “support Theatre Royal” facebook group.

‘Most importantly, we recognise and thank the Mount Alexander Shire for their involvement in managing the application process and overseeing the works program.’

Mr Gibbons said that the Coalition had voted against Labor’s economic stimulus package.

‘If they had their way, the future of one of Castlemaine’s historic buildings would have been at risk,’ he said.

The theatre has supported many local and not so local artists and community events over many years, and the community’s continued support is crucial to keep it vibing along.

What’s on at the flicks