S3 Ep2: BONUS EPISODE - The Plaza Theatre Part 2

Outback Outloud

In this Special Episode we hear interviews from people in Coonamble NSW, Wailwan Country. This episode features stories, memories and reflections about The Plaza Theatre which reopened early in 2024.
The Coonamble Plaza Theatre, a two-tiered structure built in 1930 after a devastating fire, has a rich history. Designed to accommodate 900 patrons, it features a grand foyer, high ceilings, and a spacious wooden floor. Despite its grandeur, the theatre sadly fell into disrepair and closed for nearly a quarter century.
In 2000, local resident Chris Gray purchased the Plaza Theatre with the vision of restoring its former glory. Unfortunately, his untimely passing in 2019 left the theatre again vacant, save for a final performance by the Coonamble Amateur Theatrical Society.
Now, under the ownership of Outback Arts, the Plaza is poised for a wonderful revival. The organisation aims to resume the restoration, renovation, and revitalisation of the space, creating an active hub for performance, celebration, and community engagement. This ambitious project will not only preserve a significant piece of Coonamble's history but also provide a vibrant cultural centre for the entire Outback region.
Episode Features- Celebrating Chris Gray!
Ian Smith talks about the restoration as he’s walking through the building. He describes the epic efforts of Chris Gray to get the building rehabilitated, and how considered and deliberate Chris was. The restoration included massive efforts to secure the structure and foundations again..and Chris strived hard for the endeavour.
Phil Gray reflects on his early memories of the Plaza and also about his brother Chris- his dreams and aspirations for the theatre. We hear about what a massive undertaking it was to renovate, and get a picture of Chris’s dedication, persistence and commitment to the Plaza Theatre.
Treen LeFebre talks about the Coonamble Ameture Theatre Societty, their history, and how the company developed over the years. Moving into the Plaza Theatre to perform with Chris’s support and encouragement was “fabulous”. And CATS really started to shine!
Susan Campbell remembers seeing a CATS production and immediately decided to join! She enjoys sharing how she gets her ‘female roles’ and has a big laugh!
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Find out more about the Plaza:
https://www.outbackarts.com.au/the-plaza
The Plaza in the Outback on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554426983497
Read Articles from the Coonamble Times:
https://www.coonambletimes.com.au/?s=the+plaza+theatre
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Special thanks to Dr. Mary Anne Jebb
You can find a number of her published works including “Our Mob Served: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories of war and defending Australia” (2022), “Burlganyja Wanggaya” (2012) and “Singing The Train” (2014) and award winning “Blood, Sweat and Welfare. A History of the White Bosses and Aboriginal Pastoral Workers” (2002) from great book retailers.
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Thanks to all the Coonamble participants, Coonamble Ameture Theatre Society, Polly Cohen, Brailey Lambe and Jamie-Lea Trindall.
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The Outback Outloud Podcast was designed and produced by Signal Creative’s Emma Hoy and Caroline Wallace. Outback Outloud is an ongoing project collaboration between Signal Creative and Outback Arts. The Outback Outloud community project and workshop series was designed, managed and delivered by Signal Creative. Special Guest team member in 2024 is Dr. Mary Anne Jebb. Outback Outloud is funded by Create NSW and Outback Arts.
Podcast Audio Production, Music and Sound Design by Emma Hoy
Podcast Audio Editing Assistant is Caroline Wallace
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Outback Outloud Podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Signal Creative and Outback Arts 2024.