02 4578 2110

Whats On at The Richmond School of Arts . Click on images to buy Tickets Needing a location that is central and filled with the character of history enquire now for our regular Hire Rates The Home of Our Regular Hirers. Pilates with Kala Pilates with Kala Hawkesbury Dancefit Hawkesbury Dance Fit ZUMBA GWS Academy of Classical Ballet & Musical Theatre Dance training for all ages. Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Musical Theatre. Fantasia Choir Hawkesbury Lapidary Club River of Life tango 2 Tango Dancing Lessons Show More

Theatre It features a state-of-the-art lighting system, sound system, air-conditioning, retractable back screen with projector, piano, stage with Proscenium arch, an acoustic ceiling as well as its own foyer and box office. It is linked to EFTPOS and internet for ticketing purposes. In addition, there is a Green Room adjacent for performers. The hall is 15 metres by 9 metres and will seat 168 in theatre configuration. Cabaret All the fun of the Cabaret or dinner Theatre, with our fully professional kitchen, the possibilities are limitless. The Theater is also available and has regular hirers for Dancing Zumba, Yoga, Presentations, kids' activities and holds federal and state election polls. ​ For Bookings Ph: 02 4578 2110 Seven Days Inspections welcome

Our Heritage The Richmond Literary Institute (RLI) was established in 1861 and its founding President was George Bowman. The foundation stone for the Richmond School of Arts (RSoA) was laid in January 1866 and the building opened by Sir Henry Parkes – The Father of Federation – on the 27th August 1866. As Trustees, the members of the RLI are responsible for the management and operation of the RSoA. Members of the RLI offer their time and energy voluntarily. Schools of Arts, also known as Mechanics’ Institutes, were established throughout the English-speaking world for the purpose of engaging the “artisan class” through public lectures and evening classes, thereby uplifting the educational standard of society across the board. Richmond Borough Council came into being in 1872 and the council meetings were held in the building until 1913. In 1878 additions were made to provide a library and reading room. The main auditorium was used for lectures, debating and dances. 1896 saw more additions to the building with the stage extending the main auditorium, a dressing room, a back verandah, and the upstairs Lodge Room, now called the Archerfield Room. In 1900 the Billiard Room was built (now home to the Hawkesbury Valley Lapidary Club) and extended in 1914. The back veranda, once used as a supper room, was demolished in 1998 and rebuilt with air conditioning & a large commercial grade kitchen. It was named the Murray Wing in honour of past member and benefactor, John Murray. This modern addition is now used for ballet classes, rehearsals, meetings, classes, parties and receptions. Resident local theatre company, Richmond Players, has staged performances here continuously since 1954 . Let’s Work Together Get in touch so we can start working together. First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

Margaret Thorne Margaret Thorne would be worthy recipient of the Rotary Inspirational Women’s Award because other volunteer community work in the Hawkesbury district that has spanned over 65 years, including being President of the Richmond School of Arts NSW since 1981. An Incredible Timeline Margaret Thorne would be worthy recipient of the Rotary Inspirational Women’s Award because of her volunteer community work in the Hawkesbury district that has spanned over 65 years, including being President of the Richmond School of Arts NSW since 1981. Below is a summary of Margaret’s community work: 1952 to 2000 – Margaret was associated with The Richmond Players – a community amateur theatrical society based at Richmond School of Arts in NSW. Margaret started as an usherette in 1952 and progressed to working back stage, directing and performing. Margaret performed in dozens of plays, and held every executive position of the Richmond Players committee over the years. 1953 to 1957 – Margaret was a volunteer member of the CWA Younger Set. Margaret remembers organising dances to raise money for the CWA and also to entertain young men from the nearby Hawkesbury Agricultural College (now a campus of Western Sydney University). 1954 to 1963 – Margaret was a volunteer member of the Richmond High School ExStudents Association. Funds were raised through balls, concerts and numerous social functions to build tennis courts at the school, which Margaret helped to build. 1954 onwards – Margaret became a volunteer member of the Hawkesbury Choral Society. Over the years Margaret has sung at countless openings of flower shows, opening of fetes, eisteddfods, weddings and funerals. 1983 onwards – Margaret’s husband Bruce became a member of the Rotary Club of Richmond NSW. From that time Margaret became involved in all sorts of Rotary fund raising activities, including working bees, golf days and working in the Richmond Rotary canteen at the annual Hawkesbury Show for the past 35 years. Margaret was involved in social events, wine trips, theatre parties and bus trips. Margaret was also involved helping Bruce in his role as club welfare officer for many years. In 2001 Margaret was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Club of Richmond NSW in recognition of her Rotary volunteer work. 1977 onwards – Margaret has been involved with the Richmond School of Arts. In 1977 Margaret was involved with the Richmond Players organising a concert that was held in the Windsor Function Centre to raise funds to build new toilets for the Richmond School of Arts. From that time on Margaret became a volunteer member of Richmond School of Arts and became President in 1981 (and first female president in 120 years), a position that continues today. 2004 – The Richmond School of Arts receives an Australia Day Award from Hawkesbury City Council in the category of Community Organisation – Special Achievement. 2006 – Margaret is awarded Hawkesbury Citizen of the Month for September 2006. 2012 – The Richmond School of Arts receives an Australia Day Award from Hawkesbury City Council in the category of Cultural Heritage Award. The Richmond School of Arts since Margaret’s involvement from 1977: Over the past 40 years there have many improvements to the Richmond School of Arts, including the installation of a fully equipped commercialised kitchen, air conditioning in both halls, an audio-visual system, updated lighting and sound equipment in the main auditorium, carpeting of the walkways, a major refurbishment of the Murray Wing and the Archerfield Room, upgrading of the toilets, installation of security fencing and cameras, complete padded seating for 168 people and a new stage curtain in the main auditorium, installation of fully compliant access ramps and a modern office. The upgrading of the Murray Wing in the late 1990s had been on a wish list of the Trustees ever since Margaret became involved with the Richmond School of Arts in the 1970s. The upgrade was funded 50% from a Government grant and the other 50% from years of fund raising activities. Margaret says her proudest achievement at the Richmond School of Arts is that the building is a fully functional community facility that complies with all modern day requirements, despite the original part of the building being over 150 years old, having being opened by Sir Henry Parkes in 1866. Another proud achievement for Margaret was the attendance of Dame Marie Bashir at the 150th celebration of the opening of the Richmond School of Arts building in 2016. Margaret’s current activities at the Richmond School of Arts: Attendance 2 full days per week to open the office and attend to administration work – correspondence, invoicing users, paying of suppliers’ invoices, banking, organising planned and reactive maintenance, answering enquiries for bookings and inspections, showing rooms to prospective tenants and users, liaison with existing tenants to ensure their expectations are being met and countless other tasks. Further considerable time is also spent at home answering diverted phone calls, doing further administrative work, attending to any security issues and planning for the future. Chairing the monthly Trustees’ meeting, including preparation of the agenda. The above many hours of work each week are all aimed at maintaining the financial sustainability of the Richmond School of Arts. The Richmond School of Arts remains very connected to the local community – regular current activities include, Zumba and Pilates classes, dance classes, drama classes, a regular church group, the Hawkesbury Valley Lapidary club and of course the Richmond Players. Also catered for are parties, weddings, art shows, functions, training classes and numerous other activities. In conclusion what makes Margaret an inspiration? Well in my opinion it is the huge amount of community volunteer work put in week after week, month after month, year after year, over the last 65 years. I believe Margaret would be well deserving of recognition from the Rotary Inspirational Awards for Women, as she is truly an inspiration. Yours sincerely Rob Stalley On behalf of the Rotary Club of Windsor NSW

The Murray Wing ​ The Murray Wing has a sprung dance floor, full gallery lighting with audio-visual system, a large commercial kitchen, piano and is air-conditioned. Everything you could need or want for your next, party, workshop, engagement, conference, celebration many options for all event hire. 21st birthday 50th 60th party wake family gathering dinner party lessons training seminars Kitchen receptions community events Hawkesbury Events There are round or oblong tables with chairs to seat up to 120 guests. The hall size is 19.5 metres by 7.5 metres. Tableware, cutlery and glasses are available to hire. The Murray Wing is ideal for parties, receptions, and community events. The kitchen facilities include a commercial double door fridge, a 6-burner stove and oven, microwave oven, glass washer and rear access for caterers. More than just a Room The Murray Wing has a sprung dance floor, full gallery lighting with audio-visual system, a large commercial kitchen, piano and is air-conditioned. Commercial double door fridge Commercial 6 burner stove & oven Crockery and Glassware for hire Rear access

Richmond School of Arts In the heart of historic Richmond NSW Venue Hire available for Functions and Events. Welcome to the Richmond School of Arts. ​ The Richmond School of Arts is a multi-functional complex supporting an extensive range of community activities. It combines a uniqueness of character with utility, providing a welcoming home for entertainment, learning and celebration. Whether you wish to see a stage production, are planning a family gathering, or seeking to learn a new skill, the RSoA is positioned to satisfy your quest. Since being established during the reign of Queen Victoria, the RSoA has striven to satisfy its charter as servant to the Hawkesbury community. Today’s Trustees are committed to continuing this legacy and enhancing the use of RSoA facilities for the benefit of the local populace and beyond. Function rooms for your next event .

Richmond School of Arts & Richmond Literary Institute Inc (Est 1861) The Richmond Literary Institute (RLI) was established in 1861 and its founding President was George Bowman. The foundation stone for the Richmond School of Arts (RSoA) was laid in January 1866 and the building opened by Sir Henry Parkes – The Father of Federation – on the 27th August 1866. As Trustees, the members of the RLI are responsible for the management and operation of the RSoA. Members of the RLI offer their time and energy voluntarily. Schools of Arts, also known as Mechanics’ Institutes, were established throughout the English-speaking world for the purpose of engaging the “artisan class” through public lectures and evening classes, thereby uplifting the educational standard of society across the board. ​ Richmond Borough Council came into being in 1872 and the council meetings were held in the building until 1913. In 1878 additions were made to provide a library and reading room. The main auditorium was used for lectures, debating and dances. 1896 saw more additions to the building with the stage extending the main auditorium, a dressing room, a back verandah, and the upstairs Lodge Room, now called the Archerfield Room. ​ In 1900 the Billiard Room was built (now home to the Hawkesbury Valley Lapidary Club) and extended in 1914. The back veranda, once used as a supper room, was demolished in 1998 and rebuilt with air conditioning & a large commercial grade kitchen. It was named the Murray Wing in honour of past member and benefactor, John Murray. This modern addition is now used for ballet classes, rehearsals, meetings, classes, parties and receptions. Resident local theatre company, Richmond Players, has staged performances here continuously since 1954. Our Mission

Situated in the Heart of the Hawkesbury Since opening our doors, the Trustees of the RSoA have been committed to serving the local community. With a variety of unique rooms for hire for your next performance or event, and a selection of recreational activities every week, we are sure you will find something here that connects you to the community. ​ The RSoA is also home to dance, drama and singing schools that nurture, educate and encourage creative individuals to achieve the highest level of success. Browse through our site to learn more about the activities and events we have to offer! Ron Rozzoli Theatre It features a state-of-the-art lighting system, sound system, air-conditioning, retractable back screen with projector, piano, stage with Proscenium arch, an acoustic ceiling as well as its own foyer and box office. It is linked to EFTPOS and internet for ticketing purposes. Murray Wing The Murray Wing has a sprung dance floor, full gallery lighting with audio-visual system, a large commercial kitchen, piano and is air-conditioned. The Meeting/GREEN room The Meeting / Green room can have many uses both day & night with 2 large windows with blinds to control the light, has heating and carpeted floor. Large conference size table seats 18 around it with room for other seating in the room. Can accommodate approx. 25-30. The Old Library The Old Library Room has under gone a beautiful renovation in true Victorian style. Available for hire along or in conjunction with other rooms. Idea as a Bridal room for Weddings, Audition room, Dressing room or small meeting room. Contact us for more details .

Meet The Board Caretakers of the Richmond School of Arts. President Sean Duff After collaboration on a number of projects with members of the Richmond Literary Institute, Sean was co-opted to the board in 2011. His earlier association with the School of Arts was via his involvement with Richmond Players since 2005. Sean served on Players’ committee from 2009, standing down from the role of president this year after 10-year innings. Holding a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Sean has held senior management roles in the manufacturing sector since migrating to Australia in 1987. Vice President Katrina Pritchard Stutz Katrina after a 26yr professional career as a Musical Theatre performer in Europe and America working in the Lido de Paris and the Moulin Rouge. Katrina returned to Australia with the Moulin Rouge touring company as the lead dancer on a promotional tour of Australia and Asia . After completing her Licentiate certification of teaching Classical Ballet in Cecchetti Method. Opening her own Performing Arts Academy in 2005 in the Hawkesbury. Secretary Lorraine Paull Lorraine grew up in Richmond and attended Richmond Primary and Richmond High schools. In recent years she has acted as Practice Manager at Specialist Medical Centres in the Hawkesbury area. Lorraine joined the Committee in 2007 and during that time acted as Vice President for some years. Public Officer Rob Stalley Rob Stalley, our VP, has extensive experience in the finance and business sectors including Brambles, Westfields and Unilever. He was formerly the CFO of Liverpool City Council and of Holroyd City Council. A passionate supporter of local venues and endeavours, Rob is a member of the Windsor Rotary Club, Director of the Australian Pioneer Village and Director of the Hawkesbury Race Club as well as a former Director of Fitzgerald Aged Care. He has held the position of Vice President of the Richmond Literary Institute and School of Arts proudly since 2021. Treasurer Katrina Roberts Katrina was born and raised in Richmond and continues to live in the Hawkesbury. With a background in banking and managing a small business, Katrina wanted to contribute to our local community and was approached to join the School of Arts in 2007. She was elected as Treasurer in 2009 and has remained on the board in this capacity. Preserving the heritage represented by the RSoA is a passion and so Katrina is delighted to be with the board for the next year. Committee Member Don Cobcroft Don made his first appearance as a Richmond Player in 1963. The production was Gilbert and Sullivan’s Trial by Jury which featured Don’s mother, Mavis as a member of the jury. Mavis was a member of the Hawkesbury Choral Society at the time. The show also featured Don’s twin brother John who played the parson, complete with an artificially-balded head. Don’s passion then as now was for music and there followed inclusions in the cast of My Fair Lady, Salad Days, South Pacific, to name but a few. In the 1977 production of My Fair Lady, Don showed his versatility appearing in the Cockney dancing scene and the Ascot scene as a waiter. Don recalls his delight at the fact that his father paid “good money” to hear him perform as sadly he passed away only months later. Don continued in various roles although his passion for playing in dance bands on Saturday nights precluded him from being involved in more RP shows. Most recently he played piano accompaniment at the 2015 Old Time Music Hall Theatre Restaurant.Don joined the Committee in 2021. Committee Member Harry Terry Harry Terry was born & bred in the Hawkesbury. After retirement as Principal of a school for specific purposes, he was on the committees of the Hawkesbury Agricultural Association and the Macquarie Towns Scottish Society, and treasurer of Richmond Players and his local church. Harry has rejoined the board of the Richmond Literary Institute. Committee Member Anne Duff Anne has served on the School of Arts board since 2011. Anne joined Richmond Players in the cast of “Oliver!” in 2004 and has been cast in many plays and musical productions since then. For 10 years until 2021, Anne was an active member of Players’ committee exhibiting a penchant for managing front-of-house affairs. A Registered Nurse by profession, Anne has served over thirty years at Nepean Hospital, originally specialising in Intensive Care and from 2010 she has had a focus on Cancer Care, often t reating patients in the satellite unit based at Hawkesbury Hospital. Committee Member Kathryn Gene Kathryn has lives and breathed the Hawkesbury Community for over 36 years. All her children attended Richmond High School, and were like Kathryn active in community and school events. After some time as a manufacturer, Kathryn’s pathway changed when she suffered Agoraphobic Anxieties for many years, placing her on a direction of mental physical and environmental health, now having her own private practice and being an active speaker for Beyond Blue, she also presents and manages on local community radio. Kathryn is excited to participate in another arm of the community. “I have looked at this grand building for so many years, and was not till being asked to join the board, did I realize the endless opportunities that are sitting in front of us all with this charming building”

Meeting ~ Green Room The Meeting room known affectionately throughout the theatrical world as the Green Room, where artists prepare for the theatre. Now we also hire the room for workshops, board meetings etc Meeting Room or Green Room This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors.

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