Junee’s Athenium Theatre is set to “go upmarket, yet again” with the addition of a grand piano. The addition was made possible by a generous donation from a local Junee family who chose to remain anonymous.
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Friends of Athenium committee chairman George Benedyka said the piano will arrive later this month and will be tuned by two pianists from the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
“They will tune it and set it up,” he said.
Since the committee saved the theatre from demolition almost 13 years ago, improvements to the building have been ongoing.
“The Athenium is improving all the time,” Mr Benedyka said.
The building is now home to the Junee band who use it as their base and regular functions including weddings are held at the theatre.
“It’s purpose in life has changed a bit, it’s more of a hall,” Mr Benedyka said.
Junee Shire Council now organises and manages the building which is a big difference compared to when the building was first saved by the committee.
“People wanting it demolished have calmed down and when people go to the theatre they say it has a nice vibe,” he said.
The next major work at the theatre is hoped to be the installation of an air conditioner and repairs to the stairs outside.
A ramp will also be installed at the front to allow for all-abilities access to the building from the front and back.
“It will look different but we are in negotiations with council about the aesthetics and finish,” Mr Benedyka said.
Improvement at the theatre have paid off with booking increasing dramatically over the last year from one or two a month to 15 a month.
“Booking have increased substantially,” Junee Shire Council recreation officer Nicole Barton said.
Mrs Barton, who has been managing booking for the Athenium Theatre for the last year, said the theatre is an asset to the town with the space was becoming very popular.
“It’s being used for performances, community groups and weddings,” she said. “We are working hard so the theatre can be used for everything.”
To make a booking contact the Junee Council.