The Roxy is ready to raise the curtain and put Leeton's revamped theatre to the test

There is light at the end of the tunnel for Leeton’s long-awaited redevelopment of the iconic Roxy Theatre, with the curtain to rise this week on a ‘Community First’ program.

The $11 million makeover of the 1930-built Art Deco structure has been a long and troubled affair plagued by delays and setbacks, but the revamped facility is on track to open early next year.

Leeton Council has announced a jam-packed program of local productions starting on Tuesday (3 December) as part of a soft launch to test the capabilities, facilities, and technical equipment at the Roxy.

Deputy Mayor Michael Kidd reflected on the journey of the last few years and said the Community First line-up would help ensure smooth sailing for the grand opening in March 2025.

“To get to this stage is sensational,” he said.

“Our sincere appreciation goes out to the local community groups who agreed to be part of the refurbished Roxy’s testing phase.

“Their performances will constitute a dual purpose. Firstly, to welcome everyone back to the venue by putting community at the heart of this process, and secondly, to help the project managers to commission the building itself.”

Plans to revamp the Roxy were announced in 2019, including better disability access, an enhanced foyer, two cinemas and a performing arts school.

It was scheduled for completion in 2023, however the project’s principal contractor, Melbourne-based construction firm Lloyd Group, went into voluntary administration in April last year.

As the Lloyd Group pointed to the post-COVID challenges in supply and rising costs, the redevelopment also suffered from a smaller-than-expected Federal Government contribution.

In July of 2024, Leeton Shire Council kicked in another $800,000 to help get things back on track.

Cr Kidd praised the 85 volunteers who have worked to bring them to the point of opening the doors to the public once again.

“These incredible volunteers have been working tirelessly over the last few weeks cleaning and tidying up the Roxy to ensure our grand old lady is ready for commissioning,” he said.

“We thank them hugely for their time, efforts, and belief in the good the project will deliver to Leeton Shire.”

Local disability service Kurrajong is set to christen the revamped stage with A Tribute to Grease on Tuesday, coinciding with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Performers will deliver a medley of songs from the hit musical as well as a tribute to Australia’s favourite girl-next-door, Olivia Newton-John.

A string of end-of-year concerts will close out 2024, including Aspire2B on Saturday, 7 December, Di-Salvatore Dance Academy on Friday, 20 December, and Bella Body & Soul on Saturday, 21 December.

In early January, the commissioning continues with The Summer of Cinema, featuring classic movies on the big screen every day starting on 9 January.

For the full list of events and performances, head to the Roxy Box Office online.