Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders today announced Mudgee’s iconic art deco Regent Theatre has been listed on the NSW State Heritage Register.
Backed by a strong campaign of community support, Mr Saunders confirmed that the pastel-shaded picture theatre has been formally recognised as an item of State heritage significance by Minister responsible for Heritage Don Harwin.
“This is a significant day for the Mudgee community and ensures a venue of immense importance will continue to be a reference point to the history of the region,” Mr Saunders said.
“I recently went for a look through the theatre and it is a grand location that really takes you back in time. It deserves its place on the heritage register and I think this is a big win for the Mudgee community.”
Mr Harwin said the Regent Theatre is one of a handful of remaining regional theatres from the heyday of cinema in New South Wales.
“The theatre retains a remarkable level of intact interiors, including the Art Deco fittings and fixtures in the foyer and auditorium,” he said.
“I am delighted to approve this important piece of NSW’s history in the heart of Mudgee on the State Heritage Register.”
The Regent Theatre was the work of noted Sydney-based British architect George Newton Kenworthy, who designed some of the finest picture palaces and Art Deco buildings in Australia, including the Cremorne Orpheum Theatre, the Ballroom and Supper Room in Katoomba’s Paragon Cafe and the interiors of the State Theatre in Sydney.
The much-loved theatre garnered strong support from the Mudgee community and beyond. The theatre, which has been listed for sale since 2019, will now be protected for future generations, with any change to the building now requiring the approval of the Heritage Council of NSW.