Leeton's Roxy Community Theatre reopens after crash, builder collapse

In many regional towns across Australia, local theatres serve as vital sources of inspiration, entertainment, and community connection. This is especially true for the town of Leeton in New South Wales, where the Roxy Community Theatre has been inspiring the community for nearly a century, fostering a deep sense of belonging and shared experience.

Actor Jack Speer, who has starred in "Home and Away" and Netflix productions, traces his love of performing back to his early memories at the Roxy Theatre. Speer is a member of the Roxy Theatre's rebuilding committee, highlighting the theatre's enduring impact. "It was a magical place for me growing up," he said. "The theatre itself set me on this path," shaping his career and passion for the arts.

However, like many regional theatres, maintaining operations has not been easy. Recent renovations faced numerous challenges, including a disruptive incident last year when an out-of-control car crashed into its period facade. Therefore, the recent grand re-opening of the Roxy Theatre, welcoming the community back, is a cause for great joy and celebration.

The two-story art deco theatre, designed by architectural firm Kaberry and Chard, opened in 1930 with 1091 seats across its upper and lower levels. The firm designed a total of 57 theatres across Australia, showcasing their significant contribution to the entertainment landscape. However, few of those theatres remain standing today, among them Sydney's iconic Enmore Theatre, a testament to their enduring architectural legacy.

Historian Noel Thomson, who provided project consultation for Leeton Shire Council, stated that the theatre was constructed in a relatively short period during a turbulent economic time. "At the time, it provided a great deal of employment for the people of Leeton, and amazingly, it was built in approximately eight months," Mr. Thomson said, emphasizing its significance to the local economy. "You'd be lucky to get your house built in that time now," reflecting on the efficiency of the construction process.

But the theatre faced an existential threat in 1977 when it was slated for redevelopment. A strong community response prompted the "Save the Roxy Committee" to raise $27,000, which helped the local council purchase the site for $75,000 in 1978, securing its future. After these efforts, 95 years after the theatre first opened, it holds a special place in the hearts of residents, symbolizing community resilience and shared heritage.

Today, the venue serves as an important community hub, functioning both as a civic hall and an emergency evacuation center, demonstrating its multifaceted role. Due to urgent upgrades needed for the walls, as well as the need for a new roof and accessible facilities, the theatre was forced to close in 2021, initiating a significant renovation project. The project cost approximately $12 million, with half funded by the New South Wales government and the remainder by the council and federal government, highlighting the collaborative effort to preserve this cultural landmark.

But the project stalled in early 2023 when the builder, Lloyd Group, entered voluntary liquidation, causing significant delays and uncertainty. Leeton Shire Council General Manager Jackie Kruger described the builder's collapse as a "terrible nightmare," underscoring the project's vulnerability. Unwilling to put the project out to tender again, the council took on the project itself, enlisting Peter Salisbury of Salisbury Construction to manage it, ensuring the theatre's restoration would continue.

In October 2024, a car lost control at the roundabout outside the theatre and crashed into the building, destroying some of the heritage tiles and glasswork, causing the project to halt once again. The council managed to find a skilled artisan to restore the unique facade, preserving its historical integrity. Mr. Salisbury commended all the local tradespeople who helped bring the theatre back to life, recognizing their dedication and craftsmanship. "I think it will be very satisfying to come and enjoy the fruits of their labor," he said.

Mr. Salisbury said that the theatre is something special to the people of Leeton, emphasizing its cultural importance. The fact that nearly 90 volunteers help operate the theatre, known as the "Roxy Dream Team," is a testament to this, showcasing the community's deep involvement. "Leeton holds an Art Deco festival every year, and this is the center of it," he said, highlighting its role in local celebrations. "Unfortunately, it has been closed for a few years, but it is obvious that retaining all the features of the Art Deco design means so much to the town," ensuring the festival's spirit lives on.

The theatre sprang back to life at its grand re-opening ceremony on Saturday, which was attended by hundreds of people, marking a significant milestone. Jack Speer directed an hours-long "extravaganza" re-opening concert, filled with song and dance performances involving over 150 performers, creating a memorable celebration. "It's a tribute to the history of this building and to all the people who call Leeton home," Mr. Speer said, underscoring its significance to the community.

Jackie Kruger said that improvements have been made to make the theatre more accessible to patrons, ensuring inclusivity. "It is really important that we now have front-door access for people with disabilities for the first time," she said, highlighting a significant enhancement. Previously, disability access was only available through a side door. While the main theatre is now re-open to the public, work will continue on the new smaller theatre, Roxy 2, expanding the venue's capabilities. Further upgrades will make the old supper room and upstairs offices available for artists, supporting the local arts scene.