Wednesday 15 May 2013

A spirit that haunts


Having been influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright and his 'Prairie school' ethos of architecture and interior design, where life and living is an extension of the natural environment, Marion Mahoney Griffin enthusiastically soaked up the gullies, and rocky outcrops of the Castlecrag Estate that she was developing with Walter Burly Griffin and their Greater Sydney Development Association [GSDA].

The second part of the GDSA development was 'The Haven Estate', centred upon outcrops and gullies immediately to the east of the first estate. The Haven Theatre was more Marion's baby than Walter's. The acoustics of the gully were perfect, and the couple were artistically minded, with an emphasis upon community participation. What better than an open-air theatre for amateur dramatics and soirees.


6 comments:

Allan Lloyd said...

I love the ampitheatre, Julie. Is it ever used for performances?

Joe said...

I'll bet there has been some magical performances in that amphitheater. Looks like a perfect venue for A Midsummer Nights Dream.

Julie said...

Yes, I had thought of MSND, too, Joe. More on the performances and the history of the site coming up.,

Joan Elizabeth said...

Ah ha, now I understand the stonework.

Julie said...

*grin* ... yep ...

Kay L. Davies said...

Gorgeous photos, Julie.
K