Lord Mayoral candidate Arron Wood has strongly condemned Councillor Nick Reece's controversial proposal to sell the Regent Theatre, one of Melbourne’s most cherished cultural landmarks. Reece announced earlier today his intention to sell the century-old theatre, in which the City of Melbourne holds a 51% stake in.
"I am firmly opposed to Reece’s decision to put up for sale one of the City of Melbourne’s most iconic and beloved landmarks,” said Wood. “The Regent Theatre holds immense cultural, historical and architectural significance to Melbourne. Councillor Reece’s unilateral decision to put a ‘for sale’ sign out the front is a blow to our performers and theatre-goers, who deeply treasure this venue.”
Currently, the Regent Theatre serves as the home to the Australian Ballet and has a full calendar of events scheduled through the end of 2025. The impact of the proposed sale on these performance remains unclear.
“If elected in October, Team Wood will fight to keep Melbourne’s cultural heart beating, which putting an end to any plans to sell off our greatest venues. Our budget management strategy will enable Team Wood to provide funding and opportunities for Melbourne’s artists and performers without the need to sacrifice our most valued best assets,” said Wood.
Wood also called Mayor Reece to confirm whether or not he had the support of the State government for the proposed sale of the Theatre given then are a 49% owner of the property.
"Reece's fire sale of one of Melbourne’s most significant landmarks is not only deeply disappointing but it is a short-sighted attempt to cover up his administration’s financial mismanagement," said Wood. "It's erratic, reactionary and completely at odds with the consultative approach Team Wood will bring to Town Hall."
The Regent Theatre, which opened in 1929, has long been a central part of Melbourne’s cultural landscape, hosting live stage performances, orchestra concerts, silent films and ‘talkies’. After it was nearly destroyed by fire in 1945, the then-Lord Mayor promised to rebuild it despite the post-war shortage of building supplies. In the 1990s, the theatre underwent further redevelopment, transforming it into its current state. It has since been the home of some of Melbourne’s most iconic shows, including WICKED, The Lion King, Fiddler on the Roof and Singin’ in the Rain. The restored ballroom beneath the theatre now serves as a lavish function space.
"Preserving this historic venue is not just about safeguarding our past – it’s about making sure that future generations of Melburnians can continue to experience its cultural richness," added Team Wood’s Deputy candidate, Erin Deering.
Lord mayoral candidate Arron Wood, and his running mate for the deputy’s position, Erin Deering, outside the Regent Theatre on Sunday. Credit: Chris Hopkins
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