Leeton Shire Council wishes to update the community on the progress of Stage 2 of the Roxy Community Theatre redevelopment and confirm the planned return of movie screenings, including first releases, from the Christmas school holidays.
Recent progress included:
- Roxy 2 theatrette and theatre management electrical rough in;
- Dry fire rough in;
- Carpentry for projection booth;
- Specialist cabling rough in for Roxy 2 theatrette and projection booth;
- Dry plaster and painting for Roxy 2 theatrette walls and ceiling;
- Installation of combi ovens in kitchen;
- Installation of lighting bars in Roxy 2 theatrette;
- Carpentry to theatre management floor.
Roxy Project Manager Gideon Vos said the project is progressing steadily and continues to be on track for a December 2025 completion date.
"Stage 2 will deliver a multi-purpose theatrette fitted out with retractable seating, a fully equipped function kitchen, a gaming/digital development space and management office, and improved educational and storage capability in the Supper Room. These facilities will increase the venue's capacity, functionality, versatility and revenue raising potential."
Deputy Mayor and Portfolio Lead for Arts and Culture, Cr Michael Kidd, said the project received grant funding from the Australian Government.
"We are most grateful to the Australian Government for supporting the vision behind this significant redevelopment. Stage 2 of the theatrette will enhance the Roxy's programming, enabling us to host a broader variety of performances, film screenings, and community events. It's a practical addition that will bring the venue to life year-round and strengthen community access to the arts."
The total project value for this stage is estimated at $1.6 million. The Australian Government will contribute 50% of the total cost through Round 2 of the Growing Regions Program, with Council funding the remaining 50%.
An augmented Stage 2 project will increase the deliverables but will only commence once the funding contract for Sustainable Communities is finalised.
Council also wishes to advise the community that movie screenings, including first releases, will return to the Roxy main auditorium for the Christmas/New Year school holidays. From March 2026, once the seating is installed, the Roxy 2 theatrette will offer even greater flexibility for movie programming.
Manager Roxy Theatre, Emma Di Muzio, explained that performance bookings, including movie screenings, had to be reduced temporarily to accommodate ongoing construction works associated with Stage 2. These works are taking place in areas including the theatre management office, green room, dressing rooms, and main auditorium.
"Council has heard that the community is keen for film screenings to restart and we are thrilled to announce that movies, including exciting new releases, will commence in time for the Christmas and New Year school holidays. Details of the screening schedule will be released in the coming weeks, so stay tuned. We sincerely thank the community for their patience while we prioritise the completion of the Stage 2 build," said Ms Di Muzio.
