Built in the 1950’s the 99 seat theatre was extended in 2000, with the addition of the foyer area, new kitchen and toilets and the capacity to comfortably seat 192.

2018 will see another major upgrade to the tune of $500,000 partly funded by a grant and the balance invested by Parkes Shire Council.

Included in the refurbishment is the raking of the theatre flooring, affording patrons a better view of the stage new, state of the art theatre seating and a massive facelift to the foyer area.

Parkes Musical and Drama Society President, Lyn Townsend is very excited about the quality experience patrons will now have when attending a Society production.

“When Neil (then President Neil Westcott) first started pushing for the tiered seating, I didn’t think it was something we would see in my time,” Lyn said.

“But thanks to his tenacity and determination, and Council’s unwavering support of the theatre, this idea has now become a reality.”

Cabonne Constructions from Orange were given the contract to carry out the renovations. 

Project Manager Matt Steventon said everything is on track.

“Work is running along smoothly and everyone seems pretty excited to have it all coming together on time,” he said.

The Society is currently planning a massive Gala concert series for the last two weekends in October to open the new theatre.

Aptly called “Goosebumps,” featuring over 50 Society members from past productions this concert will showcase songs from popular musicals produced by the Society over the past 18 years including Hard Knock Life (Annie), All in this together (High School Musical), Pick a Pocket (Oliver), Beauty and the Beast, Downtown, Seasons of Love, Timewarp, Music Men (PACC Concerts) a Grease mega Mix and songs from Les Miserables to name a few.

Next year will see three wonderful musicals produced in the new theatre, Anne of Green Gables in April, Shrek Junior in June and Les Miserables in September.

“Society members are very excited about our new theatre and encourage everyone to come along,” Lyn said.