Objects of Substance- Gehrmann Theatre Official Opening Program

Performances of the dramatic, sporting, or musical variety have always been part of the Grammar girl experience. Indeed, from 1888, performances at Girls Grammar were held annually in the Assembly Hall of the Gailey-designed “new” school building on Gregory Terrace. Nearly 100 years later, in the early 1980s, with ever-increasing enthusiasm for the Creative Arts, the Board of Trustees included in their Master Plan a modern, air-conditioned boutique theatre with superb acoustics. No longer would performances need to be held in the auditorium with its lack of lighting and sound systems. No longer would the School have to book theatres all over Brisbane for concerts and plays. The new theatre was named in honour of the Chairman of the Board, Dr A. S. Gehrmann [father of six Grammar girls]. It was designed by architect, Blair Wilson, and opened on School Day, Saturday 19 April 1986 by the Official Visitor to the School, the Governor of Queensland, Sir Walter Campbell. In her opening address, the Principal, Mrs Judith Hancock declared: “It is a very special day in the life of the School as it marks the culmination of many years of planning.”

1986 The Governor, Sir Walter Campbell, Lady Campbell, with Mrs Judith Hancock, Mr and Mrs Gus Gehrmann.

Acknowledging the modern, unique design, Mrs Hancock also stated, “Mr Blair Wilson, and his associates quickly recognised our needs and designed a practical and flexible building complex which melds unobtrusively into the school site and ensures that, once the landscaping is completed, it will provide a most pleasant environment for learning.” While the title “theatre” suggests dramatic performances, the Gehrmann Theatre was a multi- purpose facility from the very beginning and, to highlight the adaptability and versatility of this space, the official opening included enactments from the auditioned choir, La Capella, a modern dance performance, a rhythmic gymnastics display, and musical items. As the Governor was present, God Save the Queen was played, but two marches, one from Aida by Guiseppe Verdi and the second