Friday, November 8, 2024

ROYAL SHAMROCK THEATRE

Home Rule's Royal Shamrock Theatre was first built around August 1872 and was managed by Joey Gougenheim but the location proved unsuccessful for the owners, Manton and Smith, and by December the theatre had changed hands to Mr W H Sawbridge and was relocated to the main street. Around this time, Joseph Moss, of the Ring of Bells Hotel, extended his Assembly Rooms and converted them into a theatre, later known as Osborne's Assembly Rooms (when he took over the hotel licence).

In 1875 the Royal Shamrock was revamped again as the "New" Shamrock Theatre (dropping the "Royal) and by 1877 it had closed and become a Chinese store.

NEWS ITEMS

1872 - [OPENING]
The Royal Shamrock Theatre opened on Saturday evening last, under the able management of Miss Joey Gougenheim, who delivered a managerial address. The house was crowded and the performers acquitted themselves in a very creditable manner, the theatre-going people being much pleased with the entertainment given.

1872 - [BENEFIT]
Theatrical matters are much the same. Messrs. Manton and Smith, tho spirited proprietors of the Royal Shamrock Theatre, took a, benefit on Tuesday evening, last, which was well attended. Upon this occasion Mr. J. F. Byers appeared as Claude Melnotte, in the Lady of Lyons, and gave great satisfaction; Miss Joey Gougenheim played Pauline in her usual style.
Source: Empire (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1875) Sat 28 Sep 1872 Page 4

1872 - [RUMOURS]
It is rumoured that Miss Gougenheim will for the future keep the Royal Shamrock Theatre open every evening at Home Rule.

1872 - Home Rule Amusements
The irrepressible author of ‘Finality’ - Mr. Henry Tebbutt appeared in another new character at the Home Rule at the Royal Shamrock Theatre. He took the leading character in the laughable farce of the ‘Bailiff and the Beak’ or ‘Who Pays the Printer’ It seems that this popular J.P. holds an unsatisfied execution against Mr. Constable, ex-lessee of the Prince of Wales Opera House and proceeded to the Home Rule theatre along with the Sheriff to issue a summons. On arrival there he in true ‘Dogberry’ style, dared anyone to enter the theatre and light it up for the evenings performance. Somebody did dare, and the audience collected the usual. The affair got wind and the miners rallied to protect Miss Joey. Offers of money were made to get rid of the venerable amateur, but refused, as it was said none was really due. Old ‘Finality’ got roughly chaffed and at last sought protection in a coach outside but was quickly surrounded by the miners who on being informed that the coach was engaged by Miss Joey to convey her company back to Gulgong, compelled him to shift his quarters with the alternative of being tipped out. A gentleman present took pity on him and lent him a horse, outside of which he made tracks amid the laughter and ‘Joe’s’ of a large crowd of amused on lookers. The bailiff threw up his job in disgust, telling his employer to do it himself. We hope for the credit of Gulgong that country papers will not copy this local, as we do not feel proud of a magistrate; of course a gentleman gaining such a local reputation and a name. Poor Gulgong! We thought this cut would have been spared you.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 119, 5 October 1872

1872 - AMUSEMENTS.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre, under the management of Miss Joey Gougenheim, good houses are frequently obtained. Miss Maggie Oliver has completed her engagement, and will shortly be leaving for Sydney. Miss Joey is negotiating with some first-class talent at Sydney and Melbourne, and no doubt the public will reward this spirited lady with their liberal support. This evening Messrs. Melville, Newton, and Dumur take their benefit, upon which occasion Mr. Joseph Moss, of the Ring of Bells Hotel, an old, amateur, assisted by Miss Bessie Moss, have kindly volunteered their services. A bumper house is expected.Source: Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931) Fri 25 Oct 1872 Page 3

1872 - THEATRICAL.
The Royal Shamrock Theatre has changed hands and is being removed to the main street. Unfortunately, through erecting this building in an out of the way place, it turned out a bad "spec." for the original proprietors.

1872 - NEW THEATRE, HOME RULE.
Mr. Joe Moss of the Ring of Bells Hotel is determined that the Home Rule people shall have a second place of amusement as well as the Gulgongites, and is now preparing plans for the alteration of his assembly rooms into a theatre. Mr. J. L. Byers will probably be the lessee, which is a sufficient guarantee to the public that no expense will be spared in making this new place of amusement when opened second to none on these gold-fields.

1872 - NEW THEATRE.
Tenders have been accepted by Mr. Moss for enlarging his assembly rooms and converting the same into a theatre. When finished it will hold upwards of 600 persons and it is said that no expense will be spared in filling up this new place of amusement, and opening it with a good dramatic company. Both houses are to be opened before Christmas, and if conducted in a proper manner, will be well supported.
Mr. Sawbridge having purchased this theatre from Messrs. Manton and Smith, is now removing it to the main street. Additions are being made, and when completed, will be a nice provincial theatre. Engagements with leading artistes are now pending at Sydney and Melbourne.

1872 - ROYAL SHAMROCK THEATRE.
This place of amusement, since being pulled down and carted to the main street, is getting re-built with rapidity. The proprietor expects to have it opened on New Year's night.
Source: Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 28 Dec 1872 Page 7

1873 - ROYAL SHAMROCK THEATRE.
This place of amusement is now completed, and reflects great credit on the proprietor, Mr. Sawbridge, for the "natty" way in which the interior has been fitted up. The house is seated throughout in a comfortable manner, and capable of holding about 400 persons. The stage is proportionately large, and the scenery and stage fittings in accordance. One of the back scenes is copied from the sketch of the lower end of Lowe's Paddock, which appeared in the Town and Country a fortnight ago. The opening night took place on Saturday evening last, the house on the occasion being well filled considering the short notice given.
Miss Joey Gougenheim, our old favourite, appeared in an entertainment called "Joey at Home" —something in the same style as Miss Dolly Green's. Mr. Sawbrldge is about engaging a dramatic company, and no doubt he will receive that support from the public that his spirited undertaking merits.

1873 - ROYAL SHAMROCK THEATRE.
I have been given to understand that the proprietor of this theatre is about making terms with Messrs. Carey and Power to perform three nights a week for a short period the pantomime of "Lallah Rook," that played for three weeks at the Prince of Wales Opera-house, Gulgong, and which created such a furore. If Messrs. Carey and Power produce it with the same stage effects here they can rely on bumper houses.

1873 - THE ROYAL SHAMROCK THEATRE.
This place of amusement has not been opened since Boxing Night, owing to the proprietor not having completed his arrangements for a dramatic company. Engagements are pending with Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Byers and others. An amateur performance is shortly to be given at this theatre for the benefit of the Gulgong hospital.

1873 - THEATRICAL.
The spirited lessees of the Prince of Wales Opera House, Gulgong, Messrs. Holloway and Power, with their talented dramatic company performed here at the Royal Shamrock Theatre three nights last week to good houses, especially on the Saturday evening, when the house was crowded in every part. The pieces performed on the last occasion were "The Serious Family" and "To Oblige Benson." The parts were all well sustained and the stage management complete in every respect. It is expected they will shortly pay us another visit.
Source:  Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 15 Feb 1873 Page 7

1873 - [BENEFIT PERFORMANCE]
The Gulgong Amateurs gave a benefit performance last night for the local hospital, at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, Home Rule. The piece selected was 'the rent day' which was very well performed, and, considering the charitable object, it was but very poorly patronised.
Tomorrow night we shall have the Prince of Wales Opera Company, together with Mr. and Mrs Darrell on which occasion will be presented the tragic drama of Lucretia Borgia. No doubt they will have a bumper house.

1873 - THEATRICAL.
On Wednesday evening last, at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, Mr. and Mrs. Georgo Darrell, supported by Messrs. Holloway and Power, with their celebrated Prince of Wales company, favoured us with one of their delightful dramatic entertainments, the pieces selected on the occasion being "Lucretia Borgia," and a "Kiss in the Dark," the theatre was crowded to the celling, the miners being fully determined to roll up, and pay homage to their old favourite Mrs. Heir, known to them for nearly twenty years. The histrionic fame achieved by this lady in Australia is quite sufficient, and comment from me is unnecessary; it is expected that this and to-morrow evening will be their last appearance here.

1873 - Amusements.
The Darrells have been very successful in their tour to this gold field. They have been playing to crowded houses for the last fortnight both at the Prince of Wales Opera House, Gulgong, and the Royal Shamrock Theatre, Home Rule, and their popularity at both places is increasing and very justly so. Such high order of talent can never fail in any place to be appreciated. Miss Alice May's English Opera Company gave a farewell performance here on Saturday night last to a large and appreciative audience. I am sorry to say that this talented troupe were not quite so successful at Gulgong as we would wish them but the time chosen to come was not opportune, there being, other attractions on at the time.

1873 - ROYAL SHAMROCK THEATRE.
On Friday evening last Mr. and Mrs. George Darrell and the talented dramatic company of Messrs. Holloway and Power honoured us with another visit on which occasion was performed the tragedy of "Othello." The part of the Moor was sustained by Mr. Darrell, but his rendering of the character, was not such as to rank him with the greatest actors who have achieved so much in this character, although he may be classed above those who are perhaps more ambitious. In some of the scenes where physical power was not required he excelled, but high comedy is his forte, and it is a pity that he should attempt these heavy characters. The Desdemona of Mrs. Darrell was played in her usual style and taste and the character portrayed throughout to perfection. The Iago of Mr. E. Holloway was a fine piece of acting and played throughout without any perceptible defect. Mrs. Holloway as Emelia was quite at home, and played the part, with great ability.
The other characters were creditably sustained, and everyone appeared satisfied with the evening's amusement. The house was crowded on the occasion. The Queen's Minstrels performed last evening, at the same theatre, to a good house.

1873 - Amusements.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre on Saturday evening, our old favourite Miss Joey Gougenheim took a complimentary benefit, tendered to her by a number of gentlemen amateurs from Gulgong. On the occasion the house, although not a bumper, was a fair one, considering the short notice given and the absence of many of the lady's friends, who were at the new rushes. The beautiful comedy of the 'Rivals' was produced, and the performance on the whole was well put on the stage. The impersonation of Mrs. Malaprop by Master Allan Cameron is deserving of special notice, as he was highly successful in the part, and received a vast amount of applause.

1873 - THEATRICAL.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre on Wednesday evening last, Mr. and Mrs. George Darrell took their benefit, upon which occasion the "School for Scandal," and the Scottish farce of the "Bonnie Fish Wife." In the "School for Scandal" Sir Peter Teazle found a good representative in Mr. E. Holloway, who played the part with great preciseness, and made a complete success of it. The Lady Teazle of Mrs. Darrell (late Mrs. Heir) was immense, her make-up and rendering of the part being to perfection, as it always is in every character she personates. Charles Surface was well sustained by Mr. Darrell, and had the part been written for him it would not have found a more faithful deliniation. The Sir Oliver Surface of Mr. A. Thomson, was well played, and the most made of a part of the kind. Moses found a good representative in the person of Mr. Harry Power. All tho other diameters were creditably sustained.
Mr. and Mrs. Darrell were both called before the curtain, and tendered their thanks for the kind patronage bestowed.

1873 - THEATRICAL.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre on last evening (Easter Monday.) Mr. G. Holloway took a benefit on which occasion the comedy of Married Life, The Country Cousins, and Bachelor's Buttons, were performed. In the latter piece Mrs. Holloway assumed five different characters, and succeeded in keeping the audience in a continued roar of laughter. The house, although a good one, was not crowded, owing to the threatening state of the weather. Mr. and Mrs. Holloway are great favourites here and deservedly so.
Source: Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 19 Apr 1873 Page 7

1873 - AMUSEMENTS.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre, on Friday evening. Miss Joey Gougenheim, with her usual liberality, gave an entertainment on behalf of the Prospecting Association. The lady, on the occasion, was assisted by Mr. Thomson, Miss Lizzie Dixon, and other professionals. Owing to the threatening aspect of the atmosphere and being an off night, the house was not well filled. On Saturday evening Messrs. Holloway and Power gave one of their recherche entertainments when the Honeymoon and Betsy Baker were performed. 
In the first piece, the Duke was impersonated by Mr. Holloway, Mrs. H. taking the character of Juliana. The iuterlude was a good one, and special mention must be made of Miss Amy Chambers, who is a charming little "danseuse" and genteel actress. The afterpiece was Betsy Baker, one of Maddison Horton's best farces, in which Mr. Power was highly successful as Marmaduke Mouser. Messrs. H. and P. have engaged Miss Lizzie Watson, the celebrated burlesque actress, with other talent, and intend giving the miners a treat at the races.

1873 - THEATRICAL.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre on Saturday evening, Messrs. Holloway and Power provided us with another of their first class entertainments. The house on the occasion was tolerably well filled, and the performance gave every satisfaction. The principal scenes from Macbeth were cleverly rendered by Mr. and Mrs. Holloway, who sustained the leading parts. The performance concluded with the laughable farce of a Capital Match, in which Mr. Power kept the house in roars.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre, Miss Lizzie Watson (Mrs. Braham) made her debut here. The house was full on the oocasion, and the performance gave general satisfaction.
Source:  Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 17 May 1873 Page 7

1873 - [HOSPITAL BENEFITS]
The noble efforts on behalf of the Hospital are being rewarded by the success they deserve, and this wealthy community will be spared the disgrace of seeing the house of mercy closed for the want of only £1000 a year to make it all that it should be to those who need its shelter. The amount netted by the entertainment given gratuitously by Mr. Cogdon and a band of amateurs at the Opera House, Gulgong, was £62 7s. 9d. Of this sum £16 was collected in the house as a voluntary offering of the audience. The same programme was repeated last night at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, Home Rule, generously lent for the occasion by Mr. Sawbridge, the proprietor. The precise sum realized is not yet known, but the affair was an undoubted success, the house being crowded. Donations are coming in, among them £10 from the German Association; so that all fear that patients will be refused admittance has now passed away.

1873 - [PERFORMANCE]
The performance last night at the Royal Shamrock Theatre in aid of the Hospital was a complete success. The house was crowded and the enthusiasm of the audience immense. The applause was heard all over the town and the best of it is that applause was not all that was given. As in the Opera House, Gulgong, the "gods" insisted on a "hat" being sent round for their impromptu donations, so it was here; Mr Cogdon cleverly directing them "on the hop." Thus between six and seven pounds was added to the nights takings. The irrepressible shepherd lads keeping the thing going by flinging her Majesty's profiles in bronze upon the stage. On the invitation of Mr Cogdon and the audience, Messrs Dwyer, Carroll, and Downey went on the stage and collected this money. Mr Sawbridge, the proprietor of the Shamrock Theatre, most liberally gave the use of the building gratis for this occasion and it is to be hoped that those who can appreciate such conduct will remember, when inclined for "suction," that he has a licensed hostelrie and will "pay him in kind." Both these successful entertainments reflected great credit on Mr Cogdon, the gentlemen amateurs, Mr Sawbridge and all concerned in carrying them out, and though he will not reap a pecuniary reward they will have that which is much better, the consciousness of having performed a noble and generous action.
Source: Gulgong Guardian, Issue No 196, 2 July 1873

1873 - GULGONG HOSPITAL BENEFIT.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre which was kindly placed by the proprietor, Mr, Sawbridge, at the disposal of the committee gratuitously, the Gulgong minstrels, consisting of Messrs, Cameron, Sayers, Cogden, Scurrah, H. Woods, T. Woods, Billynuts, and Master Cameron gave an entertainment on behalf of the funds of the Hospital. The house was well filled on the occasion, and everything passed off in a creditable manner. Upwards of £24, after defraying the expenses of printing, &c, was handed over to the institution. The Home Rulers proposes shortly following suit by giving an entertainment for the same good cause. In another respect we should take a lesson out of the books of our neighbours. Some few months ago the G. J. C. handed a very handsome sum of money over to the Hospital. Why did not the H. R. J. C. out of their nice surplus, do something?
Source: Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 12 Jul 1873 Page 6

1873 - THEATRICAL.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre on Saturday evening, Mr. J. L. Byers gave his second entertainment. The house was well filled on the occasion, and the bill of fare was a most liberal one. The roaring Irish comedy of "His Last Legs" was the first piece, in which the parts were all well sustained. An interlude of songs and duets followed, with a sailor's hornpipe by the soubrette and danseuse, Agnes Benison. The afterpiece was three acts from "Othelo" in which Miss Julia Hudson (Mrs. Byers), Mr. Byers, W. Thomson, and Mr. Andrews acquitted themselves in their usual style. Comment is unnecessary on these artistes, as the whole are well known to theatrical goers.

1873 - THEATRICAL.
Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Byers, well known in the theatrical world, have leased the Theatre Royal at Gulgong, and the Royal Shamrock here, in which places they purpose on alternate nights giving dramatic entertainments. On Thursday night Mrs. Byers (nee Hudson) took a benefit at the Shamrock Theatre, upon which occasion the house was tolerably well filled, and had sufficient notice been given, this talented lady would have been favoured with a bumper.
The pieces performed on the occasion were the "Maniac Lover," and "A Kiss in the Dark." In the former, Mr. Byers impersonated with great success the character of Michael Earle, and was well supported by Miss Hudson, Miss Benison, und the other members of the Company. On Saturday evening Captain Gus Pierce exhibited his panorama of "A Tour through Australia." The incidents were highly amusing, and the house was a good one.

1873 - AMUSEMENTS.
The Royal Shamrock Theatre opens this evening under the management of Mr. and Mrs. Byers and their star company. The "Golden Farmer" will be produced with a good cast, the entertainments concluding with a negro farce. The weather having set fine, a good house may be anticipated.

1873 - THEATRICAL.
Tomorrow evening at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, Mr. J. L. Byers will take a "real" benefit, which has been kindly tendered. He will be assisted by (Mrs. Byers) Miss Julia, Hudson, and the star company. The pieces selected for the occasion are "Captain of the Watch," and "Black-eyed Susan." Considering the popularity of Mr. Byers, and the merits of the performers, a bumpar may be expected.

1873 - AMUSEMENTS.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre, on Wednesday evening last, Mr. J. L. Byers took a complimentary benefit, tendered by a committee of gentry at Home Rule. Upon which occasion was produced the melodrama of "La Tour de Neale; or the Chamber of Death." The characters were all well sustained, and the piece passed off more smoothly than could be expected, owing to the defect in scenery required by the production of a heavy drama of the kind.
The Marguerie de Burgoyne of Mrs. Byers was a splendid impersonation, as also the leading character taken by Mr. Byers. The part of Count de Luovisey, of Miss Agnes Benison, was well portrayed, and the twins Galtier d'Aulmay and Phillipe d'Aulmay were well represented by Messrs. C. Brown and Walter Modus. Although the house was not well filled, owing to the doubtful state of the weather, yet the beneficiare had no occasion to complain of the patronage bestowed. The afterpiece was a burlesque of "Fair Rosamond," in which Alick Andrews performed the part of Queen Eleanor, the tragic-comic Queen in a superior manner. Miss Benison and Julia Hudson represented the parts of King Henry and Fair Rosamond to perfection.

1873 - MUNICIPALITIES.
The all-exciting topic of the last three weeks has been the petitioning for a municipality at Gulgong, a step doubtless in the right direction, if carried out with a fair and impartial spirit, but to make it successful and popular, great care must be made in defining the boundaries so
as not to interfere with similar institutions likely to be introduced here. On last evening a public meeting was held at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, for the purpose of considering as to the advisability of forming Home Rule into a municipality.
The meeting was one of respectability, comprising the principal of our businesspeople. Mr. Smith, of the firm of Booth and Co., was unanimously voted to the chair, who in a brief speech conveyed to those present the object of the meeting, and called upon Mr. William Keating to move the first resolution, which was done in a short but explanatory manner.
An amendment was moved, and some discussion took place with reference to a borough and a municipality. The original motion was carried by a large majority. A year ago had such a thing been mooted, it would only have been laughed down, but now the result of our yield of gold perfectly justifies us in taking this step. The framers of the Municipality Act no doubt anticipated that the privilege would be frequently employed as affording a legitimate means of improving a township without over burdening the ratepayers.

1873 - AMUSEMENTS.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre on Tuesday evening the favorite commedian, Mr. Alick Andrews, took a benefit, on which occasion some of the principal scenes from the " Honeymoon" were performed, in which Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Byers acquitted themselves with their usual ability.
Afterwards followed the side splitting farce of "Retained for the Defence" and concluded with "O'Callaghan on his last Legs," in which Mr. Andrews sustained the principal character in a manner superior to those of larger pretensions. The house was tolerably well filled, and every one appeared delighted with the entertainment provided. On Saturday evening the theatre was again opened, when there was a good attendance. The pieces performed were "Black Eyed Susan" and " The Lady and the Devil." In the former piece the acting of Mr. Byers as William, and Mrs. Byers as Black Eyed Susan was inimitable, and were well supported by Mr. Andrews, Mr. Walter Medus, and others. The after piece was a great success, and kept the house in "roars" from the rising to the falling of the curtain. I had almost forgotten to mention that the proprietor has made great improvements in the stage arrangements of this theatre. Mr. M. S. English, the well-known artiste, has painted a very pretty drop, and some very useful scenes have been added that were much required for stage effect. Altogether the stage of our theatre can bear comparison with that of any other on a new rush.

1873 - AMUSEMENTS 
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre on Saturday evening last, Mr. Sawbridge, the proprietor, took a complimentary benefit, kindly tendered by the combined dramatic companies of Messrs. Byers and Holloway. The entertainment commenced with Tom Taylor's comedy of "Nine Points of the Law," and concluded with "Love in Humble Life."
The double company attracted a bumper house and the characters in both pieces were well sustained, as the audience signified by the frequent applause bestowed during the performance.

1873- THEATRICAL.
Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Byers gave one of their recherche entertainments at the Shamrock Theatre, on Saturday evening, to a well-filled house. They left here yesterday for a country tour, accompanied by Miss Clara Neville, Mr. Walter Modus, and others. They are expected to give an entertainment at Wellington this evening.

1873 - THEATRICAL
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre on Saturday evening. Mr. and Mrs. E. Holloway, with their star company, gave a dramatic entertainment. The performance commenced with the tragedy of "Medea, or the Lovers of Jason," and concluded with the farce of the "Country Cousins." In the first piece the characters of "Medea" and "Jason" were well sustained by Mr. and Mrs. Holloway, as were also all the other parts as played by Miss Coli, and Messrs. Thompson, Brown, and Ford. There was a good interlude of singing and dancing, and the night's amusement concluded with the farce, which kept the house in roars from the rising to the falling of the curtain. The theatre was not as well filled as the merits of these clever artistes deserve, and if the proprietor wishes this establishment to be supported, now that he has improved the appearance of the stage, he should divert a little attention towards the comfort of the audience, and do something towards improving the seats, as well as providing a suitable entrance to the "front seats." which at present is very inconvenient.
Source: Empire (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1875) Mon 20 Oct 1873 Page 4

1873 - THEATRICAL.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre on Saturday evening Mr. and Mrs. E. Holloway and their star company gave a dramatic entertainment, on which occasion the nautical drama of the "Anchor of Hope" was performed. The theatre was tolerably well filled, and the company acquitted themselves in their usual manner, which never fails to give satisfaction. The principal characters in the drama were sustained by Mr. and Mrs. Holloway and Mr. Thomson.
It is the intention, I am informed, of Mr. Holloway to bring his company here at leaat one night a weak, and if sufficient notification is given to the diggers of the nights of his performance he will be well supported, that gentleman being a very old favourite and well deserving of patronage.

1873 - AMUSEMENTS.
Mr. and Mrs. E. Holloway continue, at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, to draw good houses once a week.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre on Wednesday evening last, the favourite actor, Mr. E. Holloway, took a benefit, on which occasion the tragedy of Medea was performed to a good house. On Saturday night the theatre was again opened, when Mr. and Mrs. Holloway, and the Star Company, performed to a fair house an interesting drama and laughable afterpiece.
Source:  Empire (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1875) Sat 8 Nov 1873 Page 4

1873 - AMUSEMENTS.
During the past week Home Rule has been destitute of every kind of amusement, and the usually Saturday evening's dramatic entertainment provided for us by Mr. and Mrs. Holloway at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, appears to have been discontinued. Surely the large population here are capable of supporting a small company at least two nights in the week. Mr. and Mrs. Byers and Miss Clara Neville who are now on a tour at the Southern gold fields are expected to pay us a visit at the commencement of the new year.

1873 - AMUSEMENTS.
At Home Rule, amusements, especially of a theatrical description have almost entirely collapsed, andeverything seems to be descending rapidly into a state of torpor, which generally is the case on a gold-field, when new finds do not occur, and the old claims are being worked out, thereby causing the population to leave for other places of more recent note.
On Monday evening last Mr. Bird put in an appearance, with his Italian and American Circus, and gave one of his world-renowned performances. The Circus on the occasion was crowded in every part, and hundreds were unable to obtain admission. Professionals at a distance must not take this result as any criterion of the manner in which amusements are supported here, as for some weeks previous, we were almost without entertainment of any kind.
On Thursday evening, Mr. and Mrs. E. Holloway took their farewell benefit at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, but owing to the short notice given the house was nothing like full. The entertainment was a miscellaneous one, in which some of the principal scenes from Macbeth were rendered with Mr. and Mrs. Holloway's usual ability.

1873 - Scholastic
Mr. William Spillane, who has recently been keeping a school at Lowe's Paddock, is about making a commencement at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, which has been kindly tendered without charge by the proprietor, Mr. Sawbridge. Already there are two schools— the Congregational and the Roman Catholic— but the teachers at both of these places, owing to the number of scholars, are overworked, which the opening of a third institution will greatly alleviate.

1874 - ANNIVERSARY DAY.
I am informed that Mr. Sawbridge, the proprietor of the Royal Shamrock Theatre, in conjunction with some other gentlemen, proposes on Anniversary Day getting up a picnic on a large scale. A band of sixteen has already been organised, under the leadership of Mr. B., which is a sufficient guarantee that the musical arrangements will be carried out with satisfaction.
Source: Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931) Fri 16 Jan 1874 Page 3

1874 - THEATRICAL
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre, on Saturday evening, an entertainment was given by a number of amateurs in connection with the Home Rule brass band. Miss Clara Neville, thc Queen of Song, who had just returned from a provincial tour, kindly tendered her services, and the amusement on the occasion was such as to give every satisfaction. The night was dark and the weather very unpropitious, yet the house was a fair one.

1874 - AMUSEMENTS.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre, on Saturday evening week, a performance took place in aid of the Home Rule Brass Band. The weather on the occasion was very unpropitious, but the house was a fair one. The band played some very nice pieces of music, and every one appeared delighted with the entertainment provided. Miss Sawbridge, who is a very delightful young songstress, became quite a favorite on the occasion, and highly amused the audience with some of her nice little ballads. On Saturday and Monday evenings last, at Osborne's Assembly Rooms, (late Moss's) M. J. King gave his popular Hibernian entertainment to good houses, and the public were much pleased at it for its versatile
character. The company on the whole are good, and well deserving of patronage; they proceeded to Dubbo this morning.
On Monday evening fortnight, Emerson's Californian Minstrels, and the World Japanese Troupe are to put in appearance at the Shamrock Theatre.

1874 - THE POLYGRAPHIC TROUPE
A portion of this talented troupe, the Ethiopian Minstrels, assisted by the ladies and gentlemen vocalists, gave last evening a performance it the Royal Shamrock Theatre, on which occasion the home was well filled in every part. On Saturday evening next, another performance will be given, when it is expected that the Japanese will amuse us with their tight rope and conjuring performance.
At the Royal Shamrock Theatre, Home Rule, on Saturday evening, Cogdon's Occidental Minstrels gave one of their negro entertainments, upon which occasion the house was well filled. "Life down South," which was interposed with songs and dances, kept the audience in good humour, and an enjoyable evening was spent. During the last three months there has been a dearth of amusements in the district, and for a short season a dramatic company would pay well. Mr. Petres has been exhibiting at the Star Hotel, Gulgong, his grand dissolving views of the Crimean war with tolerable success.

1874 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
Royal Shamrock Theatre - Home Rule - Evening in aid of the R. C. Church, Home Rule
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 24 March 1874

1874 - [ADVERTISEMENT]
Shamrock Theatre - an amateur performance will be held there to aid the Roman Catholic Church.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 2 April 1874

1874 - Royal Shamrock Theatre
On the second of May, a farewell benefit will be tendered Miss Clara Neville at the above theatre on which occasion the burlesque of the ‘Fair Rosamond’ will be produced and a concert given with the May Pole Dance.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 30 April 1874

1874 - AMUSEMENTS.
The St. Julian Combination troupe of acrobats and comic singers will perform at the Royal Shamrock Theatre on Saturday evening next, when doubtless they will be favoured with a bumper house, from the high reputation they bring with them.
Source:  Empire (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1875) Sat 16 May 1874 Page 4 

1874 - AMUSEMENTS.
On Saturday evening last Miss Clara Nevill took a benefit at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, upon which occasion the response accorded by the public was highly satisfactory. The lady and gentleman amateurs, who kindly volunteered their assistance, was all that could be expected, and the performance passed off in a manner highly creditable to all those concerned. The hornpipe played by Master Nevill on the bones deserves special praise.

1874 - AUCTION SALE AT HOME RULE
Good Business sites adjoining the Royal Shamrock Theatre, Home Rule, instructed by T. Ryan of the Horse and Jockey Hotel of Gulgong.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 28 May 1874

1874 - HOME RULE RACES
In concluding my remarks I must not forget to mention that we had two good bands on the course, the Home Rule and the "St. Julian." The latter was under the direction of Mr. W. H. Sawbridge, the proprietor of the Royal Shamrock Theatre, and if equalled cannot be surpassed in the colony.

1874 - AMUSEMENTS
Since the renowned Mammoth Troupe left us both Gulgong and Home Rule until last evening at the latter place has been without amusement. Bosco's mixed entertainment, consisting of ventriloquism and the wizard business, &c., at the Royal Shamrock Theatre failed to attract a large audience, although on the whole it was versatile and highly amusing. Those who were present appeared to enjoy themselves, and no doubt when it becomes known that the evening's amusement is not confined to the four figures " Ruth," "Charley," "Susan Johnson," and "Brown," the attendance for a few nights at the theatres in both townships will be better, but Mr. Bosco must not forget the fact that the miners generally speaking, have seen the best talent in the world, and it would be impolite for him to stay with us until he becomes ennui.
The meeting held to raise money for the widow and family of the late William Brooks has raised one hundred and five pounds, fifteen shillings, the mother will receive forty pounds and the balance to the widow and children. Those involved in the fund raising were Messrs. Keating, T.H. Jones, A. W. Honour, Murray, McGrath, Hernes, Gorman, H.V. Lodge of Oddfellows and money raised from the entertainment held at the Royal Shamrock Theatre.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 11 August 1874

1874 - MUTUAL PROVIDENT SOCIETY.
A lecture was delivered a few days ago by the agent of the above society at the Prince of Wales Opera House, Gulgong, and on Wednesday evening last at the Royal Shamrock Theatre, explanatory of the benefits to be derived from the institution. On both occasions there was a good attendance, and a number of persons took the opportunity of enrolling themselves as members.

1874 - [HOSPITAL SUPPORT]
Efforts, the most praiseworthy, are being made to augment the funds of the hospital, now reduced to a low ebb. Mr. G. Bromley intends giving a benefit this evening at the Shamrock Theatre, Home Rule, in aid of the funds and the Oddfellows of both townships are of one mind respecting another entertainment for the same laudable purpose. No doubt the appeal in behalf of this noble institution will not be made in vain; so thriving a community can never allow it to be closed for want of funds.

1875 - The New Shamrock Theatre
We remind our reader that Mr Sawbridge will celebrate the opening of his new theatre by a grand Ball and supper to-morrow evening. A full band will be in attendance. We hope the new theatre will be better patronised than the old one.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 7 January 1875

1875 - St Patrick’s Day
In out advertising columns it will be seen that the members of the Home Rule branch of the Hibernian Society intend celebrating St Patrick’s Day at Home Rule with a grand fete at which all kinds of sports will be indulged in, and amongst them that of ‘hurling’ which is not commonly played in this part of the colony. After the sports of the day there will be a grand ball and refreshments in the evening at the Shamrock Theatre, at which the gentlemen will be admitted by ticket and the ladies by invitation. At Gulgong, on the same day will be a grand fete at Homers Paddock, the programme of which is not yet published and a ball in the evening under the auspices of the Football Club. There are not doubt plenty of people in the district to patronise both amusements well. We therefore thrust that there will hundreds at each.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 6 February 1875

1875 - Bellringers
The Australian Bellringers perform at the Shamrock Theatre, Home Rule, on Monday and Tuesday and at Gulgong Wednesday and Thursday.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 6 March 1875

1875 - Home Rule 
A Correspondent writes—On Saturday night, the 4th instant a complementary benefit will be tendered to our esteemed townsman Mr Sawbridge, at the Royal Shamrock Theatre on the eve of his departure. Judging by the names and influence of the gentlemen forming the committee and popularity of the recipient there can be no doubt but the entertainment will be in every way a grand success. Ever since Mr Sawbridge has had the management of the theatre he has always given the use of it together with his gratuitous service and that of his admirable and accomplished daughter for every benefit of a good and charitable nature. It is therefor to be hoped that all will roll up on this occasion and give him a bumper.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 1 September 1875

1875 - [SALE]
The Shamrock Theatre and Hotel to be sold by tender on December 6, 1875. Tenders to be addressed to: WILLIAM WESLEY, Golden Fleece, Herbert Street, Gulgong.
Source: Gulgong Evening Argus, 1 December 1875

1876 - [MINING]
Mr D. McGuire and party are sinking at the rear of the old Shamrock Theatre. They have had to overcome a layer of cement by blasting. It is to be hoped that they will be successful.

1877 - [CONVERSION]
The Ballarat Hotel was re-opened last week by one of our most enterprising townsmen, well known to many of your readers, Mr. Sawbridge, proprietor of the Shamrock Theatre when in existence here. Apropos, speaking of the last mentioned premises, it is converted into a Chinese store.

1923 - [MEMORIES]
Then who but remembers the glove fight that was brought off at the Shamrock Theatre, Home Rule, between Black Alick, of Victoria, and "Parramatta-street" Kelly, for ten pounds aside, and was won all the way by Kelly, who was handled by the redoubtable Joe Kitchen; while Mick Cunningham did the needful for Alick?
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