Weld Theatre

Star 4.8 (50 Google reviews)

The Weld Theatre is a proscenium arch theatre with limited wings and fly facilities. It has 120 seats, stage managers booth, lighting and sound facilities and video projection. The facility includes a range of backstage dressing, makeup and costume areas, an extensive foyer and a licensed bar. Technical, front of house and venue management are available by arrangement.
The Weld Hall was built during the course of 1874-1881 and progressively developed and adapted thereafter. Named after Governor Frederick Weld, it was built as a Mechanic’s Institute and provided support and education prior to institutions such as public libraries being formalised. Weld Hall later serve as a town hall, the Mechanic’s Institute which began in 1861, a meeting place for the Returned Services League, and now, the home of the Busselton Repertory Club.

​ Mechanic's Institutes began in Scotland in 1821 as an education facility for working men, as employers recognised the value of better educated employees, and as an alternative to pubs.

Weld Hall was built as a single storey brick building with a galvanised iron roof in the Victorian Italianate style, with a stage and auditorium behind a street facing verandah. It has cultural heritage significance as the place associated with various community organisations, reflecting its important public education role.

It is one of the oldest remaining structures in Busselton and is an important reminder of the role of the Mechanics’ Institute in promoting education and cultural development in the community prior to formal library and education facilities being created. It has had many additions and alterations over time to the present with excellent stage, auditorium, foyer and facilities.

The Weld retains a social role as a theatre and contributes to the community’s sense of place. It has a striking visual form and plays an important role in the Queen Street streetscape at the corner of Queen and Adelaide streets. ​

Location

Weld Theatre

13 Queen St, Busselton WA 6280, Australia

Reviews

Star 4.8 (50 Google reviews)
Ian Watson 16 April 2019

Three one-act plays were highly entertaining. Bloke consisted of five monologues which ranged from amusing to poignant. Kindness of Strangers on film was very true to life with an uplifting ending. Knight Errant was a very funny farce. And Tully's poetry as a scene-change interval was a brilliantly humourous interlude. What a talented young lady!

Scamp 22 March 2018

Excellent, cosy theatre for a variety of live stage shows. Small bar on site selling wine/beer/bubblie/water before & after show. Slooped seating so views from most seats; disabled seating in Row A

Aint Perfect 18 March 2018

Great little theatre. Comfortable seats, clean facilities, friendly service. Small enough to give you that up close and personal feeling. Love it.

Helen Quicke 16 April 2021

Great show. Weld Theatre very tight when a large crowd. Seats nice view excellent

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