Schonell Theatre
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The Schonell Theatre is a 420 seat [1], single auditorium theatre capable of hosting projected cinematic films, musical performances, plays and lectures. It is situated in the UQ Union complex at the University of Queensland's St Lucia campus. The theatre was constructed in 1970 and underwent refurbishment in 2005. It is owned and operated by the UQ Union. While the theatre was used for the display of alternative and foreign motion pictures, Schonell Theatre closed regular cinema screenings on 24 June 2006 [2]. The Schonell Theatre also is home to a gourmet pizza café and the Cement Box Theatre.
[edit] History
The theatre was constructed in 1970 and was renovated in 2005 with $4 million provided by the UQ Union. Shows during its history include the Brisbane Scouts Gang Show[3] and Rent.
[edit] Closure
The Schonell Theatre closed on the 24 June 2006. The UQ Union as cited low attendance rates[4] and the introduction of Voluntary Student Unionism(VSU) as the cause. The introduction of VSU meant that the union could no longer afford to subsidise the Theatre. [5] But external reports question this claim as the political parties inside the UQ Union disagreed on the closure[6]. The theatre is now used for university lectures and is available for booked special screenings and live events. The Cement Box Theatre continues to host theatre productions, including the University of Queensland Law Revue.
[edit] References
- ^ Schonell Official Page
- ^ Closure Page
- ^ Scouts Gang Show
- ^ Union Newsletter - Closure of Theatre
- ^ Schonell Theatre News Page - Closure Reason
- ^ End of an Era Article
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