Stanthorpe Little Theatre: Historic community building undergoes $60k renovations

Over the last six months the iconic Stanthorpe Little Theatre has undergone major renovations to turn the structure, built more than a hundred years ago, into a community space that can be used for more than just stage shows. Take a look inside here:

Stanthorpe Little Theatre renovations. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post

Stanthorpe Little Theatre has undergone a dramatic transformation, with six months of hard work going into turning the iconic community hub into a brilliant new space.

Stanthorpe Little Theatre renovations. Pictured: President Shannon Cox. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post

Renovations on the historic building, which was previously deficient in usable space, began in January and construction of the foyer was completed this week.

More than $60,000 of council funding was allocated toward opening up the theatre and increasing its functionality.

Stanthorpe Little Theatre President Shannon Cox. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post

President Shannon Cox said 35 sqm of space was added to the building to create an inviting foyer, as well as an area for a lighting technician to be able to operate in.

“The Little Theatre is used by a wide variety of groups like choirs, church, judo classes and many other community groups, so this gives us an extra space for gatherings after shows, workshops and meetings,” she said.

“We wanted to give to the community a nice place they could enjoy an evening out.”

The building’s design is a nod to the history of the church. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post

Mrs Cox said they wanted the building’s design to be a nod to the history of the church, with cathedral-like high ceilings and chandeliers, while adding modern elements to bring it into the 21st century.

“We wanted to reuse the original stained coloured glass windows, keep the floorboards and make it as similar and authentic to the original structure as we could,” she said.

“It’s a beautiful venue with the cathedral ceilings and lights, that’s now not only a workable space but a modern area that can be used by many community groups.”

The outside of the Stanthorpe Little Theatre, with the structure on the right recently built. Pictured: President Shannon Cox. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post

Mrs Cox said the Little Theatre was hoping to raise an additional $35,000 to finish the project, which will include the introduction of a functional bar and outside deck.

The Stanthorpe Little Theatre also has plans to install a functioning bar and outside deck area. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post