The Hull Street Theatre Company, alongside local artists, residents and business owners took hands to clean up the historical building and restoring it to its prior glory.

“There was a lot of people that felt there was not much for our youth to do and there is very little theatre space besides the one that we already have. So, the community felt that we were going to come together,” said Hull Street Theatre NPO board member, Merissa Meyers.

Clean-up inside the theatre. Picture supplied

In later years, the area around the theatre complex became a crime hub, with vagrants living inside and around the buildings.

Business owners called meetings with residents to discuss the clean-up, upkeep and the way forward for the community to best benefit from the theatre.

“Some people said because it is for their kids and it will leave a legacy they are more than willing to assist and help guard the building as a community.”

Garbage from the morning shift. Picture supplied

Having seen renovation plans, many residents in De Beers are excited about the upgrade.

Local artists will be invited to paint murals to beautify the complex and showcase their work.

While it is being refurbished, residents and board members of the Hull Theatre NPO will host smaller events at the complex to bring the community together and to give people an opportunity to view progress.

Damaged flooring was removed. Picture supplied

“Business owners and community members did look after the place, although unfortunately sometimes it is out of our control that a lot of crime and unnecessary activities took place at the theatre.

“The turnout for the cleaning-up operation was overwhelming with businesspeople and residents working shifts to get the job done.”

Community members should keep an eye out for details of next year’s grand re-opening of their beloved theatre.

OFM News/Casey-Lee Anthony