Situated in the main street of Bingara, the beautiful art deco Roxy Theatre is a multipurpose cinema and performing arts venue. Originally built in 1936 by three Greek brothers, the cinema lay closed for some 40 years. After being restored to its original glory, New South Wales Premier, Bob Carr, officially reopened the theatre to the public in 2004. The building still contains original fixtures and fittings from 1936, including ornate stucco plaster, paintwork and coloured lights.
Today, the Roxy is home to internationally acclaimed touring theatrical events, cinema screenings and music recitals, and is residence for the North West Theatre Company (NWTC). The NWTC frequently engages professional directors from metropolitan areas for their productions. The Roxy also serves as a function centre for a wide variety of activities and events.
With a small population, Gwydir Shire aims to maintain sustainable projects. The Roxy is available for community hire and caters for groups ranging from a small number of participants, up to 200 people for seminars and conferences. This assists with the self funding of the venue and also brings community groups together.
Being centrally located in Bingara, the Roxy led to the formation of the Gwydir Shire Band. This has helped breakdown barriers in the new Shire with students from across the area being involved in the band.
In 2007, the Roxy is expected to present the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and also hopes to attract a return visit of Baby Proms from Sydney in the near future.
As one of the great success stories of the Shire, the Roxy is reliant on the tireless efforts of countless volunteers who have given their time, expertise and energy to running the numerous events and activities.
Guided tours are also available during opening hours.
