Kyneton’s Town Hall offers a variety of arts and culture related events for the local community. It is also the current headquarters for the Macedon Ranges Shire. The historic, heritage listed building stands on 129 Mollison Street. It was originally the Kyneton Shire Hall and was erected after the area became the centre of one of the earliest shires in the state in 1865. When Kyneton became part of the Macedon Ranges Shire, the building then came to serve the purpose of a town hall and a performing arts centre.
The building is steeped in history and just one of the many places of historical interest in the town. The first stage of the hall was constructed from 1879 and the second, fifty years later. The architecture of the building reflects the characteristics of these two periods. The second development involved inserting a stage that was able to accommodate both theatre and film. This met both the community’s need and also satisfied the growing popularity for film post World War One.
The Town Hall continues to rely on feedback from the local community to decide which events to provide. It is now managed by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council Arts and Culture Unit but the events are not limited to this theme. Whilst there are many comedy, cabaret, dance, music and kids’ shows on offer, the Town Hall hosts anything from business awards to Battle of The Bands and local children’s music recitals. Upcoming events this year include international comedian, Arj Barker, and plays entitled Hallowed Ground and Women Doctors in War.
The front foyer has a bar with drinks and refreshments from local producers. There is parking available at the rear of the building and there is a drop off point on the adjoining street. The front row of the hall is left available for patrons who are blind or visually impaired, and there are hearing loops available for hearing impaired patrons. This allows them to enjoy shows with better sound quality. The building is accessible for everyone and brand new heating and cooling have been installed, ensuring a higher degree of comfort than other buildings from this era.
Why not check out what is on offer at the Town Hall this season? You can experience a wonderful performance as well as explore this stunning building that is a little piece of Kyneton’s history.
For further information on the Town Hall, visit this website:
Macedon Ranges Shire Council website: https://www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/See-Do/Arts-Culture/Kyneton-Town-Hall