West Victoria holds on to a lot of its history, including cinemas that are still decked out in the style of yesteryear. If you want a movie experience that takes you back to the golden age of film, these are the places to hit.
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Theatre Royal
Image: Theatre Royal Castlemaine
First constructed in the 1850s, Theatre Royal is one of the oldest continuously operating theatres in the Southern Hemisphere. It began screening silent films in the early 1900s, and today hosts the likes of the Castlemaine Documentary Festival.
It’s family-run, and also features a live music venue, a bar and a pizzeria.
Where is it? 30 Hargraves Street, Castlemaine
Rex Theatre
Image: Rex Theatre
The Rex is volunteer-run, and doubles as a museum and screening location for classic films, as well as a select few new releases. The building is described as “art deco”, an architectural style defined by geometric shapes and luxury.
The theatre became a part of the township in 1938. Live music and theatre performances also feature in the building
Where is it? 30 - 34 High Street, Charlton
Capitol Cinema
Image: Capitol Cinema
Warrnambool’s Capitol Theatre opened in 1930, with a screening of The Hollywood Revue, starring Joan Crawford. International artists like Roy Orbison also visited the venue to play live shows.
In 2009, a fire ripped through the building and resulted in a year-long closure. The theatre has remained operational since reopening following repairs.
Where is it? 54 Kepler Street, Warrnambool
The Regent
Image: City of Ballarat
The Regent has been in Ballarat Central since 1928. It was once one of the largest theatres in Victoria with 2,000 seats. It retains the charm of last century, with velvet stairs, a marble foyer between some of the cinemas and a dramatic main sign consisting of festoon lights.
Where is it? 49 Lydiard Street, Ballarat Central
Header Image: Castlemaine State Festival Facebook