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Another new technology was in
place for the opening of this particular
Regent: talkies. As in Sydney and
Melbourne, Union Theatres had stolen
a march on Hoyts by presenting the
Jazz Singer in Brisbane at His
Majesty’s in May 1929, but this time
there would be dialogue on a Regent
screen from opening night.
Melbourne’s trades and artisans
were well represented in the
construction phase. All plasterwork
came from Picton Hopkins of
Richmond. The distinctive lights -
bronze torches and candelabra - were
manufactured by W. M. Bedford of
Little Lonsdale Street. This company
had supplied light fittings for several
theatres and was experienced in
original designs. The ceiling murals
were painted by William Bustard, also
from Melbourne.
The stage curtains and drapery were Top: The length of the corridor to the Grand Foyer is evident in this isometric drawing
of salamander silk and brocade, by Michael Gillies. Below: The rich detailing of the ceiling of the baronial outer foyer
imported from the U.S.A. by Craig softens an otherwise austere approach to the Grand Foyer. Hoyts Archives
Williamson and Co. of Melbourne, and
elaborately fitted.

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