NEW PICTURE THEATRE

Dominion, Volume 8, Issue 2524, 27 July 1915, Page 2

NEW PICTURE THEATRE

FOB PETONE^

- The tender of Mr. A. Reniier lias been, accepted by Mr. Henry E. White, architect, for the erection of a modern picture theatre' for the Petone Picture Theatre Co., Ltd., which when, completed is to cost about.>676oo. The most central site in Petone has been secured for the theatre —that block on the corner of Jackson Street and Bay Street, opposite the Muni- 1 cipal Building and near to the Post Office. Its facade, which will present a 53ft. front to Jackson Street, will be a modern adaptation of the mission style of architecture. A central feature is the heavy metal far-projecting cornice (which has an overhang of 4ft. 6in.), and is, roofed with mission metal tiles (red), forming a. picturesque contrast to the cream rough-cast finish of the building. Raised well above-the cornice are two square towers, between which will be erected an automatic 'electric, sign. The central entrance (15ft. in,width) will admit to all parts of 'the house; Tlio corridor entrance will be tiled,_ and will have an ornamental ticket-box in the centre. Tho entrance to the floor of the auditorium is straight ahead, and to the circle by two stairways, which converge in the dress circle lounge, with central" swingdoors, admitting to tha circle. The whole of this snug little theatre will be furnished with tip-up, upholstered seats, designed for comfort and convenience, and 6uch attention has been given to the line of sight that a full view of the 6creen will be obtainable from'any seat in the house. As the architect has dispensed altogether with columns,"the position will be that anyone who can get a seat has a wholly uninterrupted vi6w of' tho stage, which is not always tho case in this country. The new theatre, which will seat 900 people, will be lighted with electricity by its own plant, generated by means of a gas engine and dynamo to be set up on the adjoining section. The interior of the theatre will be finished in white plaster, with panelled walls; richly decorated, and a handsome ceiling of stamped steel. Two modern, shops are being provided in front of the theatre, which is to be completed in 22 weeks from date. „' _ Tho designer is Mr. Henry E. White, who planned His Theatre, Wellington, and is now engaged on the erection of a municipal theatre for Hastings* •