THE Assembly Rooms - the predecessor of the Winter Gardens - have just undergone a major refurbishment, reported the Gazette 100 years ago.

"For the past three weeks, a large band of workmen have been constantly employed within the building, and the result is a little palace of comfort and beauty.

"The first thing that will strike the visitor is the revolution in the seating arrangements. In the reserved area, the old stiff-backed chairs have given place to a most luxurious array of crimson and gold fauteuils, supplied by Messrs Cox and Painter, Warwick House. They are the essence of beauty and comfort and are equal to anything of the kind in the best of London or provincial theatres. Behind these the floor gradually slopes upwards to give those in the back ample opportunity of viewing the stage.

"The Assembly Rooms, as they were known of old, were noted for their defective ventilation. This has been remedied by the introduction of two powerful electric fans, which without the very least draught draw the foul air out of the building.

"A revolution has also taken place in the lighting system. The stage, from top to bottom had been fitted with electric light and the old limelight has given place to powerful electric arc lamps which produce the most beautiful effects. The hall, too, is lit with electric light, and the whole is on the most up-to-date and improved patterns, and has been admirably carried out by Mr A Sparkes.

"The proscenium has also been widened to give the full stage frontage necessary for big companies, and an artistic representation of the Balcony Scene from Romeo and Juliet has been introduced in the drop curtain."