Page 17 - CinemaRecord #11R.pdf

The auction sale of the Embassy to MGM, for 50,000 pounds ($1 00.000) in 1950, and Its subsequent conversion
to a first run Metro house ended this link. The distributors suggested switching with the smaller nearby Esquire
(Classic) cinema in Elstemwlck (which reopened In 1946 and still operates in 1997) but this was fim1ly refused
by the Camden's management.

The foyers and auditorium were completely repainted around 1953 and extensive scaffolding was necessary.
Operations continued throughout the renovations. The mostly beige, gold and mushroom tones were retained.

The stalls and circle foyers and lounge were re-carpeted with the original pattern which was specially woven in
England. The heating was by means of a large hot water bolter with fool plate warmers In the stalls, lounge and
first four rows of the circle. No emergency generator was fitted, and during the power shortages around 1g5o it
was necessary to close on Monday nights, along with many other cinemas and factories.

On Saturday nights and public holidays It was necessary to employ a fireman, presumably because of the risk
factor associated with nitrate film and large crowds. The Public Health Department would also make spot visits,
usually on a Saturday night, to check that everything concerning public safety was In order. After one such visit,
they ordered that cyclone safety mesh be added to the outside dress circle escape stairs, below the handrails.
The building had operated for 15 years without Incident, but the order had to be complied with.

On busy nights special trams were supplied to take the crowds home. If the finishing times were right, one
Carnegie "green rattler" could pick-up at the Esquire and Renown (both in Elstemwlck), the Camden and Hoyts
Glenhuntly as each show concluded. The tramways would then show a profit.

One of the most popular films of the late 'forties was Bob Hope and Jane Russell In "The Paleface·. It played to
•tum-away• business on Friday and Saturdays and 75%. or more, houses on the other nights. As the feature
had to be shown first on Friday, Monday and Wednesday. due lo film switching, the starting time was delayed to
8.00 pm to settle the crowds, with six or more ushers on hand, and two or three cashiers.

On two summer Friday nighls, MGM musicals brought in such unexpected business and I he dress circle was
oversold by using roll licllets. Patrons had to be refunded and offered the last remaining front stalls seats.
Intervals were a maximum of 12 minutes and refreshment stalls, lolly boys and nearby milk-bars had lo work
really fast. This was all highly labour-intensive compared to today's complexes.

The Camden Theatre completed twenty-seven mostly successful and profitable years. The building has now
been used as an Indoor bowling club for an even longer period.

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CAMDEN THEATRE

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