The next stage of work on Narooma Soldiers Memorial School of Arts (operating as the Kinema) starts on Monday 20 March. It will be completed before the school holidays.
The Kinema will continue to operate during this time with entry being from the side door on the car park side, possibly for two weeks.
‘The School of Arts management committee and the Griffiths apologise for any inconvenience to patrons, but believe most people won’t mind considering the end result,’ said School of Arts spokesperson Laurelle Pacey.
Harvey Shears of H & A Builders will do the work in conjunction with local tradesmen.
This next stage involves constructing a large wraparound awning to provide more undercover space for patrons with improved drainage and concreting, repairs to the exterior of the building and immediate surrounds including resolving some stormwater issues, and repainting of the exterior in art deco colours.
The new exterior colour design was done by a six-member panel of local artists in association with Eurobodalla Shire Council’s heritage people and the management committee who have approved the final design.
‘It’s an exciting and vibrant look that resonates with the original 1925 design with the Australian Imperial Force’s rising sun symbol, yet also celebrates the rich vibrant artistic and cultural life within our much-loved venue,’ Ms Pacey said.
‘We are honouring the fact that our community built the then multipurpose Hall as its First World War Memorial. Details of the design and its origins are on display in the Kinema’s foyer.’
Jacob Castagna of Australian Cemetery Supplies recently restored the four granite plaques on the front façade, including the two Honour Rolls, as the first step in this next stage of the work. All four plaques were donated by Dorman & Long when they were quarrying at Moruya for the Sydney Harbour Bridge pylons.
Most of the cost will be covered by grants from the NSW Government, the rest by generous donation from the community.
Recently completed work at the Hall includes the renovation of the toilets and hallway downstairs in art deco style and the installation of an early smoke and fire protection system to current Australian Standards.
The remaining work on the Hall, to be completed by October, will facilitate live performances with more wing space on the stage and revamped dressing rooms downstairs. The back corner of the building will be left unpainted until that work is completed.
School of Arts Hall Project – Plaque refurbishment
Above: Jacob Castagna of Australian Cemetery Supplies restoring the plaques on Narooma Soldiers Memorial School of Arts Hall (operating as the Kinema).
