Page 6 - CinemaRecord #11R.pdf

tised at the Lyric from the 12 Apri1.(2) The Rialto continued to be the more prominent house screening on most
nights each week.

Talbot queried the Health Department over the need to have a fireman on duty given the light attendances at
the Lyric screenings. The seating capacity was subsequently reduced to 495 to save employing a fireman (2).

On 19 October 1936(2), the architectural firm of R. Morton Taylor (of Melbourne) submitted plans to the Health
Department which detailed extensive alterations and refurbishment of the Lyric. Talbot's decided to increase
their investment in Box Hill in order to keep the large Hoyt's circuit out of the rapidly developing area. The
theatre reopened on 29 March 1937 as the Regent and generally screened three nights per week.

Apart from an art deco refurbishment (inside and outside) the balcony had been altered and refitted to become
part of the cinema again, the entrance foyers were extended and gas radiators were placed along the side
walls. The new bio box was placed slightly off centre to the screen. The Regent now seated 843 (545 stalls and
298 circle). The opening film was "Little Lord Fauntleroy" starring Freddie Bartholomew.(1)

It would appear, from Company letterheads in 1941, that Eastern Theatres changed their name to Box Hill
Amusements and operated from a Melbourne office, Mr. Talbot was still managing director . J Ritchie was now
the manager of the Regent. During the later part of the 1940's the controlling interests of the new company
were CB, JB, and LE Chadwick(2).

During the 1940's a variety of alterations were approved including additional toilet facilities and ventilation
improvements. Cowper, Murphy and Associates were the architects at this time. A new ceiling was proposed
but not installed and its poor condition was the subject of much correspondence with the Health Department
between 1948 and 1952.

In April 1952(2), Cowper Murphy and Associates submitted plans to the Health Department which included a
new proscenium, replastering of the interior walls and a new candy bar all of which were to be styled on current
trends. James Lyall, a specialist plastering firm, installed the new square patterned ceiling. Plaster pendant
bracket lights were suspended from the new ceiling. The completed works were approved in December 1952.

Box Hill Theatre Circa 1972 (Prior to demolition)
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