The Roxy Theatre original fan-shaped logoThe Roxy TheatreAction Group · Parramatta

Success stories

It has been done before.

There are many examples of successful historic theatre restorations at home and abroad. Each one is proof that what we propose for the Roxy is not only possible — it is overdue.

  1. Capitol Theatre Sydney before restoration
    Before restoration
    Capitol Theatre Sydney with new stage house
    Restored, with new stage house
    01

    Capitol Theatre — Sydney

    For many years a decrepit wreck which many would have thought too far gone to restore. As with our Roxy proposal, a large stage house was added to the rear of the theatre and the auditorium and foyer were beautifully restored. It is now a thriving performing arts venue and has been a key factor in the renewal of the Haymarket precinct.

  2. Toowoomba Empire Theatre before restorationToowoomba Empire Theatre restored — exteriorToowoomba Empire Theatre restored — auditorium
    02

    Empire Theatre — Toowoomba

    Opened in 1911 with 2,000 seats; closed as a movie theatre in 1971 and used for decades as a TAFE carpentry workshop. A public campaign saw it reopen in 1997 as Queensland's most successful regional theatre. The stage was demolished, a huge new flytower built at the rear, and the auditorium fully restored. Its success has since spawned three further adjacent venues. If Toowoomba can do this, why not Parramatta?

  3. Newcastle Civic Theatre exterior
    Newcastle Civic Theatre auditorium
    Newcastle Civic Theatre proscenium
    03

    Civic Theatre — Newcastle

    A 2,200-seat movie palace built in 1929. After it was closed as a cinema, it was fully restored by Newcastle City Council as a live performing arts venue capable of presenting any size show or spectacle. If Newcastle can do this, why not Parramatta with the Roxy?