Leeton Shire Council invites interested arts organisations to submit an initial Expression of Interest (EOI) to lease and operate the Roxy Community Theatre.
History of The Roxy
The Roxy Community Theatre is in the heart of Leeton’s CBD. It is an art deco building that was built and opened in 1930 as a cinema and is dearly loved by the residents of Leeton Shire and much admired by many visitors. The Roxy has a very proud history and has been in continual operation since it opened. Proprietor, George Conson – whose vision it was to deliver a “Palace of Dreams” – added a stage in 1933 and Gladys Moncrieff (Australia’s ‘Queen of Song’) performed to sell-out crowds for 5 consecutive nights. The Roxy is a fine example of an inter-war cinema designed in a modified Art Deco architectural style with Art Nouveau and Spanish Mission elements. ‘The Roxy’ is one of a small number of two level cinemas in New South Wales, and is a State heritage Listed Building. In the past, its multi-function capabilities have hosted concerts, live theatre, films, and community / civic events. Following a four-year major redevelopment, ostensibly completed in December 2024 and with the finishing touches to Stage 2 scheduled for 2025, the Roxy is poised to re-establish itself as the major hub for cultural and community activities in Leeton, servicing the Shire, surrounds and ideally also regional NSW for some education and training elements of the vision. (Note: The facility remains multifunctional and is required now also to serve as an evacuation centre in case of natural disaster/emergency. It is also a high interest tourist destination).
What sort of lessee and operator would be a good fit for the Roxy?
Council is seeking EOIs from respondents who have the ‘heart and mind’ to successfully run a multi-functional theatre facility in a regional area that delivers on the Leeton Shire’s community’s aspirations for The Roxy. Experience would be ideal, including an ability to plan and work both commercially and with community, along with the ability to raise funds to augment the annual contribution that Council is able to offer. Respondents who are highly networked and with established partnership would be at an advantage.
The full Expression of Interest (EOI) Document can be downloaded from the Leeton Shire Council’s Web site HERE.
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