Schonell Theatre

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Entrance of Schonell Theatre

The Schonell Theatre is a Theatre and Cinema complex at the University of Queensland. It consists of Theatre One: a 420 seat ^[1], single auditorium theatre capable of hosting projected cinematic films, musical performances, plays and lectures; Theatre 2, a 180 seat cinema and the Cement Box Theatre. It is situated in the UQ Union complex at the University of Queensland's St Lucia campus. The theatre was constructed in 1970 and underwent refurbishment in 2005. It is owned and operated by the UQ Union.

For three decades, the theatre hosted regular screenings of popular, alternative, and foreign motion pictures, adding substantially to the income of UQ Union. On 24 June 2006, ^[2] however, Schonell Theatre was forced to cease regular cinema screenings. Schonell Theatre remains an important part of campus culture and the theatre community. Live theatre performances are extensive and ongoing throughout the year. And the Schonell is still home to the Cement Box Theatre, situated in a basement level, as well as a popular gourmet pizza café.

[edit] History

The theatre was constructed in 1970 and was renovated in 2005 with $4 million provided by the UQ Union. Shows during its history include the Brisbane Scouts Gang Show^[3] and Rent.

[edit] Closure

The Schonell Theatre closed its regular cinema operations on the 24 June 2006. The UQ Union cited low attendance rates^[4] and the introduction of Voluntary Student Unionism(VSU) as the cause. Following the introduction of VSU, the union could no longer afford to subsidise the Theatre. ^[5] External reports, however, question this claim, and various factions within the UQ Union either opposed or supported the closure.^[6] The theatre is now used for regular live theatre productions by local theatre companies, university lectures and is available for booked special screenings and live events. The Cement Box Theatre also continues to host theatre productions.

In 2008 the Schonell Theatre will proudly commence limited regular screenings of films as part of its service to UQ students. Cult, classic and other films will be screened for free on a Thursday afternoon.