Since its opening in 1929, the State Theatre Sydney has captivated the hearts and minds of patrons with its majestic elegance. Our group enjoyed a wonderful two hour tour led by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide.
During the tour we sat in the different levels of the auditorium and were lucky to see (and hear) the Wurlitzer organ (the voice of silent movies) standing on stage for its regular airing and tuning. The sounds were some used as sound effects for the silent movies.
We learnt of the eclectic elements of the Theatre’s Gothic, Italian and Art Deco design. We visited the famous character lounges including the exotic Butterfly Room, the Pioneer Room, and the College Room.
We admired the world’s second largest hand-cut crystal chandelier, the Koh-I-Nor, as well as prize-winning artworks by famous Australian artists including William Dobell, Mary Edwards, Charles Wheeler and Raymond Lindsay. We were able to go back stage and view the steel fire curtain as well as the performers’ green room with a huge array of posters of many concerts and shows from the Theatre’s history.
Afterwards we enjoyed lunch at a nearby club which was convenient to both the Theatre and Town Hall Station.