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Release Date: 
Thursday, 15 February 2018

The Roleystone Theatre will be closed while the City carries out a number of works to the building.

In preparation to undertake upgrade works to remove some of the existing asbestos panelling and replace the theatre roof, a structural assessment was undertaken which identified that the removal of the asbestos panelling would affect structural elements of the building. The report identified urgent temporary works which were required, mainly relating to bracing of the fly tower. The City will undertake these works immediately which will enable a further in-depth structural assessment of the building to determine the building’s structural integrity over the longer term.

Council considered a report on this matter at its 12 February 2018 meeting, and resolved to close the building and proceed with the temporary bracing and in-depth structural assessment.

Mayor Henry Zelones OAM, JP said the City had to consider safety as the highest priority and has therefore reluctantly accepted the recommendation to close the building.

“We are in discussion with representatives from the Roleystone Theatre Group about the works and the implications for the group’s activities. There will be some disruption to the group’s season of Robin Hood: the truth behind the green tights. The impact on remaining shows for the 2018 season will only be known after further assessment. Once the schedule of the works is confirmed we will assist the group in promoting alternative arrangements for Robin Hood.

“The Roleystone Theatre is a much loved community identity, and has a long history. It was originally constructed as a public hall in 1922 and has been used as a theatre since the formation of the Roleystone Choral and Dramatic Society in 1933.

“The building is an integral part of the arts community and the City had to act now to ensure the buildings integrity is properly checked with a view to returning it to normal activity,” said Mayor Zelones.

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