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The theatre, at the time, was New
Zealand’s largest and seated 2600
(stalls 1773 and circle 887).
A large stage was constructed
behind the proscenium, and was
equipped with a tall fly-tower. The
basement areas of the theatre housed
the electrical generator, boiler, sump
pumps, storage, dressing rooms, the
hydraulically lifted orchestra pit and the
English Christie cinema organ.
A long emergency exit tunnel ran
from the left side of the front stalls,
beneath the auditorium to the Laneway
on the right hand side of the theatre.
This exit tunnel still services part of the
modern cinema complex now on the
site.
The typical curved atmospheric The walls of the auditorium were Sound was introduced on 5th
ceiling extended from the front of the heavily decorated in Eastern August, 1929 with the screening of The
auditorium to the cross aisle, halfway adornments that resembled street Jazz Singer. A Western Electric sound
up the circle. At this point a large scenes. The auditorium featured system had been installed.
decorative arch was used to change extensive panelling, murals, minarets,
from the atmospheric design to a flat alcoves and twisted columns. Artificial
ceiling arrangement of panels and three trees and vegetation were also used
Photos: Painted decoration on the side
domes. extensively. walls of the new auditorium.

16 2010 CINEMARECORD