CENTRAL THEATRE IS TO BE CLOSED FOR DANCING

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 14, Issue 43, 26 September 1949, Page 5

CENTRAL THEATRE IS TO BE CLOSED FOR DANCING

Dancing enthusiasts of Edgecumbe and sui’rounding districts will learn with regret of the closing of the Central Theatre, Edg'ecumbe, to all dancing. The Theatre floor is to be rebult and will be, when completed, a gradual slope in the usual picture house design. The hall, which was built principally as a dance hall, was erected and managed by Mr T. Bell, builder, of Edgecumbe, who was one of a syndicate, .was opened in 1940. Many successful functions have been held and it was here that men who were going overseas on active service were farewelled and welcomed home again. The building played a large and varied part in the life of the community through the war years, serving as a meeting place for the numerous committees, which were formed, and their activities. It was not until the Green Parrot Theatre was destroyed by fire in 1942 that the hall was used for the screening of pictures. Now as a final gesture to the district Mr D. C. Meikle, present owner, has offered free of charge the use i! of the building to the Rangitaiki Plains Dairy Company Volunteer Fire Brigade for a final dance. Arrangements are being made to hold this dance on October 6. The brigadesmen are endeavouring to put on an evening worthy of the occasion and are hoping to receive the support of the residents of the district.