Although Twyford Hall in Merimbula is currently closed due to COVID-19, work on the new Theatre Twyford has continued behind it and the structure is now visible from street level.
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The second level of the structure has been reached, with walls and floors for two new dressing rooms and bathrooms, front foyer and box office area in place and the theatre auditorium taking shape in its centre.
During a recent site visit behind the barriers off Beach St, the sense of excitement was palpable as Twyford Ambassador Frankie J Holden stood where the stage will be and recited a few lines to the scaffolding.
"It'll be a great space for performers - you'll be able to see the whole audience and they'll all be able to see you. It's going to be a beautiful intimate venue for live shows."
In June as the external walls were being erected, Twyford Hall vice-president and head of the construction committee Charles Cooper said he was very pleased with the progress being achieved by head contractor, Monarch Building Solutions.
The 200-seat theatre building is on track to be completed in the second quarter of 2021 with fit-out completed not long after that.
The construction cost is being met by a combination of funds raised by the Twyford Hall Committee, private donations and a $7.4million grant under the Regional Communities Development Fund announced by the NSW government in 2018.
In the meantime, as COVID-19 keeps live performances out of the hall, communications manager Lis Shelley has been keeping Twyford fans engaged with links to performances around Australia via the Twyford's Facebook page and website.
Live and recorded performances online from theatre, dance, music, opera and comedy companies are showcased each week.
The Twyford is looking forward to returning the favour in the future by streaming shows from the new theatre out to wider audiences.
The Twyford's theatre seat fundraising campaign has so far raised more than $22,000 towards its $200,000 goal.
The community is invited to make a tax-deductible donation via the Twyford website at thetwyford.com.au.
