The Lyric Theatre

On Saturday 14 March 2026, a dedicated band of community volunteers gathered at The Lyric Theatre for a spirited Working Bee, demonstrating, once again, what can be achieved when people roll up their sleeves for a shared cause. Under clear skies and in ideal weather conditions, seventeen volunteers arrived ready to lend their skills, energy and goodwill to the upkeep of this much-loved historic venue.

The day’s programme of work was ambitious and impressively executed. The theatre’s original façade received a fresh coat of paint including the addition of a new, secondary colour chosen as a respectful nod to the building’s heritage - to be revealed when scaffolding is removed. Nearby, the large exterior viewing platform was carefully stained, ensuring it remains both attractive and well protected for years to come. In the gardens, volunteers tackled a range of maintenance tasks, including the removal of invasive bamboo and general tidy-ups that restored the grounds to their welcoming best.

Attention also turned to several practical improvements around the building. The seated pergola - constructed from reclaimed timber salvaged during the theatre’s roof rebuild - was maintained and upgraded, preserving both its function and its symbolic connection to the venue’s restoration (following cyclone Ita). Inside, teams carried out a thorough deep-clean of the kitchen and service areas, leaving them sparkling and ready for the theatre’s busy programme of upcoming events.

Despite the scale of the work completed, spirits remained high throughout the day. Laughter and good conversation accompanied the steady progress, and volunteers were rewarded with a generous smorgasbord lunch that provided a well-earned opportunity to rest and reconnect.

Above all, the Working Bee served as a powerful reminder that The Lyric Theatre truly is built by the community, for the community - sustained by the dedication of volunteers who continually step up to care for this cherished cultural hub.