RAOB Hall Esperance
(Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes)
Physical Description
The Bijou Theatre was built over a period of only 31 days. The size of the original building was 93 ft x 32 ft, height 22 ft, auditorium 55 ft x 32 ft with stage 17 ft x 30 ft. The floor was pine. Two backdrop scenes were painted by H Gough, one of West Beach and the “Grace Darling” entering the harbour and the other scene of a drawing room. Patrons were seated on wooden stools and chairs. Illumination was by six large kerosene lamps. Today the Bijou retains the original facade but it now bas raked seating, consisting of 160 padded fold up seats. A rear balcony accommodates stage lighting and sound operations. A bar/kiosk bar been built inside the small entrance foyer. Steps either side lead up to the auditorium.
History
The theatre was the main source of entertainment for the people of Esperance for more than 30 years after construction.