THE Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre recently became the home of 40 newly-purchased state of the art Wenger music stands.
Their acquisition completes the first stage of a fundraising project which will eventually see the theatre equipped with 60 new music stands and the trolleys to store and move them easily around the theatre space.
The project was initiated by Limestone Coast Symphony Orchestra music director Jennie Matthews and Lions Club Blue Lake Brass Band Festival organiser Allen Woodham OAM.
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre manager Frank Morello was an enthusiastic supporter of the scheme, which will see the theatre equipped to deal more easily with performing music groups, both local and visiting.
Contributions from the orchestra, the Lions club and theatre were supplemented by several private donations to make the first stage a reality.
“Up until now, when large music groups have set themselves up in the theatre, music stands have been transported in from other venues, such as the Mount Gambier City Band Hall or one or other of the local schools,” Ms Matthews said.
“Having strong, light-weight music stands already onsite will save volunteer crews this one awkward job, as well as valuable set-up time.”
Ms Matthews said the music stands would remain the property of the Limestone Coast Symphony Orchestra, however they would be housed permanently in the theatre for the use of all hiring groups.
“The South East Primary Schools Music Festival and end-of-year school concerts will certainly benefit, as well as outside groups such as OperaSA and the Australian String Quartet, both of which are visiting the theatre later this year,” she said.
