Heaton, Benton Bank, The People's Theatre (Lyric)

HER Number:
9861

District:
Newcastle

Site Name:
Heaton, Benton Bank, The People's Theatre (Lyric)

Place:
Heaton

Map Sheet:
NZ26NE

Class:
Recreational

Site Type: Broad:

Site Type: Specific:
Cinema

General Period:
Modern

Specific Period:
C20

Form of Evidence:
Extant Building

Description:
The People’s Theatre is a landmark in its setting; the green pantile roof contrasts with the red brick with stone detailing and makes the art deco style building stand out from its surroundings. The building is beloved of many theatregoers in the city and those who recall its initial use as a cinema. Originally opened in January 1936, the Lyric Cinema was constructed by Thomas Clements and Sons to the design of Marshall and Tweedy architects of Newcastle. In 1959 the cinema was bought by the People’s Theatre (established 1911) and converted in to an arts centre. The theatre remains in use and hosts local and amateur productions as well as national touring productions. The centre is also the home of the Young People’s Theatre, which was established in 1963. LOCAL LIST

Easting:
2665

Northing:
6627

Grid Reference:
NZ26656627

Lats/Lons:

Sources:
Newcastle City Council, 2006, Local List of Buildings, Structures, Parks, Gardens and Open Spaces of Special Local Architectural or Historic Interest Supplementary Planning Document; Frank Manders, 1991, Cinemas of Newcastle, pages 95-96; Frank Manders, 2005, Cinemas of Newcastle, pages 81-82, 97, 120, 151, 159; William Muir, 1988, Bygone High Heaton; Heaton History Group, http://heatonhistorygroup.org/tag/peoples-theatre/