To the left of the stage is the large electrical switchboard built especially for the Strand Theatre and the latest in the electrician's art and skill. Below the stage are twenty well-equipped dressing rooms as well as storage rooms and a lounging room for the orchestra. The orchestra pit is capable of seating an orchestra of sixty pieces.

It is difficult to adequately describe the beauty and symmetry of the new theatre or to draw through the medium of words a clear and vivid impression of its excellence. One needs to visit it personally to fully appreciate what those who designed the transformation and who have accomplished it as well as those by whom it has been made possible have given to the people of Southbridge and its vicinity.

The Strand Theatre was designed by Louis Destramps of Fall River, one of the country's leading architects who also designed the present Blanchard Theatre which for several years has been the leading theatre of Southern Worcester County. It is expected that Mr. Destramps will be present when the new theatre is opened on Thursday evening.
 

Ball, The Contractor
The contract for the remodeling of the Hippodrome building for theatre purposes was awarded to Hormidas U. Ball of this town, and, although sub-contracts for various details of the work have been awarded, Mr. Ball was in general charge of all construction. He is to be congratulated upon the efficient and thorough manner in which the work has been accomplished under his able supervision.

The elaborate and tasteful decorations of both the theatre and lobby are the work of the Dunkley Company of Boston whose excellence of workmanship are deserving of comment. The metal lath for the wall, lath for the wall panels and roof were furnished by the Northeastern Metal Co. of Boston and were installed in conjunction with the General Roofing Co., which was also in charge of the roofing and ventilating.

The electrical apparatus, including the large and intricate switchboard, were installed under the personal direction of Charles Lafrance, chief electrician of the Blanchard amusement system. The Southbridge Heating Co. installed the heating and plumbing systems and the scenery was furnished by the Story Co. of Somerville. All draperies and hangings were made by the D and L Shop of this town and all cement work was done by Frank Nichols, also of this town. Each contractor whose work has helped to make the present structure possible has reason to be proud of his part in producing so beautiful and creditable a theatre for the enjoyment and admiration of all.

The safety as well as the comfort of the public has not been neglected in the planning and construction of the Strand and twelve main exits have been provided which will enable the theatre to be emptied in approximately two minutes. Several additional emergency exits are also provided on the west side of the building which will only be used in cases of emergency.

High Class Attractions

With the completion of the Strand, the owners aim to give to their patron, not only a beautiful theatre, artistic and modernly equipped, but the best procurable in the way of entertainment whether it be plays, music or motion pictures. The wishes of the public in the way of entertainment will be borne in mind and suggestions are always welcomed by these enterprising business men who realize that what the public wants is what they want to give. The Strand theatre represents the outlay of many thousands of dollars in an effort to provide for the people of Southbridge a high class theatre where high-class entertainment can be presented. The interest shown and the efforts made by the five Blanchard Brothers deserve the support and cooperation of every resident in this section to whom clean, wholesome entertainment appeals.
 
 

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