PLYMOUTH |
The Encyclopaedia of Plymouth History |
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REBUILDING THE METROPOLE THEATRE
Although the sale of the Metropole Theatre in Tavistock Street, Devonport, failed to attract any bidders at the auction on September 27th 1923, it was sold to Mr John Tellam, a builder and property owner, who had wide and varying interests throughout Devon and Cornwall. [1] Under his ownership and the Management of Mr G E Prance, formerly of the New Palace Theatre, the premises were completely rebuilt. [1] An old problem, where the people in the Circle were unable to see the stage, was cured by lowering the stage and cutting away part of the Balcony decorations. As a result it no longer had a Gallery or a Pit, just the Stalls, Grand and Upper Circle, and Balcony. The work cost over £40,000 and included the installation of three-coloured lighting throughout. Two new film projectors, as used at the Capitol Theatre in New York, no less, were also installed at a cost of £150 each. The theatre was decorated in buff and brown, with papered panels, gilt fittings and seats upholstered in blue. Unfortunately, Mr John Tellam died suddenly at shortly after 5am on the morning of Wednesday July 23rd 1924. [1]
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