I’m about to start writing my next novel – it will be a sequel (of sorts) to ‘The Girl from County Clare’, taken from the viewpoint of the youngest character, Jane, who is entirely fictitious. I suspect Charlie, the youngest one from ‘Gwenna’ may appear too, but time will tell on that.
The historic aspects of this story will be as well researched and factual as possible and in keeping with my previous novels, but since I made up the younger characters it will be different insofar as they are not based on any particular person. Having said that, there will be real people involved in the story.
I’m digging into Auckland’s theatrical past. Did you know Auckland had an Opera House, first built by H.N Abbott in 1882?
I’m sure Aucklanders will remember attending shows at His Majesty’s and the demolition of the theatre and the arcade, which began on Christmas Eve in 1987. Were the authorities hoping that Christmas celebrations would distract the populace from protesting? It didn’t work, but the protests failed nevertheless.
Then in 1910 Kings Theatre in France Street (better known as the Mercury Theatre) was built. Is there anyone in Auckland who didn’t attend some event there? It’s time sadly came to an end as well.
Does anyone have memories or stories of these early theatres and shows?
I was told that Fuller’s Theatre Company used to tour New Zealand and they would leave from the Onehunga wharf in full costume, with the women in glorious picture hats and elaborate dresses.
I’d love to hear your stories.
By Vicky Adin,
Author & book lover.