In a special ceremony held on Monday, 9 December 2024, members of the Roxy Redevelopment Committee (RRC), Roxy Project Management Office, Councillors and Council staff gathered for the official unveilling of the George Conson bust at the Roxy Community Theatre.
George Conson was the original developer and owner of the Roxy Theatre, being the proprietor from 1929-1977. George's efforts in 1977 were also integral to saving the Roxy when ownership was transferred to Leeton Shire Council to ensure the theatre would be retained as a Civic Theatre and Centre for Community Activities.
Located in a prime position in the Roxy foyer, between the two staircases leading into the auditorium, the impressive bronze bust connects old with new, welcoming the community to George Conson's "Palace of Dreams".
The bust, sculpted by Leasha Craig, was commissioned and generously donated by George's son Don Conson to celebrate the theatre's recent redevelopment.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Conson reflected on George's remarkable life and said that his father would be delighted with what has occurred in the years since Leeton Shire Council took full ownership of the theatre.
"This latest renovation and restoration is remarkable, and my father would have been incredibly proud," he said.
Roxy Redevelopment Committee Member and long-term member of the former Roxy Advisory Committee, Bill Barwick, reminisced on the community's efforts in the 70s to save the building from demolition, through to its more recent efforts to bring our 'grand old lady' into the 21st century.
"In 2016 we embarked on a journey spurred on by WHS and accessibility concerns and a number of other non-compliances. Engagement with users soon revealed many other needs and ideas which culminated in a bold, shared vision for the Roxy which continues to live up to George Conson's mission to deliver a 'Palace of Dreams'.
"Watching the thrill in people's faces at our first show last week was a pure delight – there couldn't have been a nicer way to start our
commissioning phase.
"In addition, the refurbished Roxy provides the necessary facilities and technical equipment to attract touring companies and meet performing arts, music, film, community and civic needs," he said.
Portfolio lead for Arts & Culture, Deputy Mayor Cr Michael Kidd, said the unveiling of the bust followed an exciting week for Leeton Shire Council with the Certificate of Occupancy being issued for the theatre, and the launch of the 'Community First' program.
"It was an absolute joy to see our community back where they belong, with two sold out shows at the Roxy. Our heartfelt thanks goes out to the local community groups that made these shows happen and to our volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure the theatre was ready for reopening," he said.
There are more shows to come and tickets are selling fast. Those interested in attending one of the remaining shows in December are encouraged to book online at www.roxyleeton.com.au or at the Roxy box office 30 mins prior to start.
