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The 9th of November, 1999, the 75th birthday of 'The Of disappointment to the 'purists' is that the downstairs
Capitol', saw it relaunched when invited guests came for area will not be restored. Commercial reality and the sheer
the 'relighting' of the ceiling, which had been restored to size of such a project makes this takes almost impossible.
something like its original magnificence. A preview
screening of 'Happy Texas' to a full house, rounded off In view of the uncertain future that once hung over this
this gala event.
magnificent theatre, the fact that it is now in safe hands
and will be available to Melbourne's citizens indefinitely
In the weeks after this 'relighting' work began on expos- should be seen as compensation itself for not restoring the
ing the 'lost' foyers. The last tours of the bricked in areas theatre to its original configuration.
took place as work commenced on the their demolition.
Capitol Photos: Jan Williams collection.
fn march 2000, the first phase of this work was complete Walter Burley Griffin: National Libr01y of Australia
with the upper foyers available for inspection. (Reprintedfi'om .The Age Good Weekend 911011 999)
Ground Floor Plan: Martin Powell
Although the walls were relatively clean and the ceilings First Floor Plan: Cinemas of Australia Via USA - 1981
and some wall ornamentation could be seen, there was no Additional information: (1) From Bernie Halperin
carpet or furnishings. Still, the opening up of these areas
was a triumph for tJ1ose who want to see 'The Capitol'
live on, and gave those who had not seen it prior to 1965 a SUN THEATRE - YARRAVILLE
chance to at least savour some of the glory that was con-
tained within the foyers.
FREE OUTDOOR MOVIES
More restoration will take place as finances permit. New
'audio visual' equipment has been installed at the back of New Years Eve - 9.30pm Film
the seats, although the original projection booth remains. and Fireworks at Midnight

The movie screened at the 'relighting' was beamed from Outdoor screenings are held twice a year and have proven
the original bio-box. To facilitate the use of the audito- to be very popular with huge attendances.
rium for lectures, some additional lighting and facilities
will be required, this installation being done with a view Part of Ballarat Street is closed off to vehicles, a large screen
to preserving the integrity of what remains of this theatre. is erected outside the beautiful Sun Theatre, and families
are able to mingle freely and enjoy the night.
One thing that is not included in the plan is the reconnect-
ing the original upper foyers to the auditorium. They will Where else in Melbourne can families gather for a fabu-
instead become function rooms. lous evening of free and safe entertainment that is FUN ?

The Cinema And Theatre Historical Society Victoria is proud to have
The Sun Theatre Yarraville as our major sponsor. Many thanks to member
Mr Michael Smith, the owner of the Sun Theatre, for providing the venue
for CATHS meetings and events.

The Sun Theatre is the home of The Sun Film Society and MGS lnfa Set. This unique cinema
offers comforts for all to enjoy in delightful art deco surroundings and is available for hire. In
conjunction with the Sun Film Society, the Sun Theatre offers you a wide selection of films.

For program and venue hire inquiries, contact Theatre Manager Ms Pina Virtuoso
on Tel: 9362 0999 • Fax: 9362 0338 • Website: www.mgsgroup.com

Tt-1~ ~u~ Tt-1Um~

""AI:?~ VILLI:
8 Ballarat Street, Yorroville. Phone: 9362 0999

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