The Gaiety was one of the biggest, most modern theatres in the world when it opened in February 1898. To mark the opening, a troupe of 60 was brought to town from Melbourne and played to 1000 spectators every night for a week. Even Dame Nellie Melba performed here. The theatre has recently been beautifully restored to its former glory – complete with gorgeous red velvet drapes – and hosts occasional ballet and orchestra touring performances.
What a bonus it must have been for the miners to be able to move between the pub and the theatre through connecting doors.
