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Cinema Two 144 and in Cinema Three
150. A pleasing feature of the smaller
theatres was traveller curtains across the
screen. Odeon-Star is a good example
of how hard work can save a suburban
cinema. A resurgence of interest in
beachside Semaphore, as Glenelg goes
upmarket, has also helped.
Piccadilly Cinemas,
North Adelaide (Wallis Theatres).
Three screens.
The Piccadilly was built by the D.
Clifford Theatres** in 1940 and seated
1440. This and the Capri represent the
last wave of single screen constructions
in Adelaide. The exterior and the foyers
show moderne styling at its peak.
Arrow-head windows follow the curve
of a semi-circular staircase, a
distinctive motif whether viewed from
inside or out. Port-hole windows along
the opposite wall and in the stalls foyer
vary the imagery. The original carpet
pattern has been reproduced
throughout. The superb staircase is the
approach to Cinema One, which utilises
the original balcony and now seats 409
people. The original projection room is
equipped with a Philips Kinetron and a
spare Kalee projector.
The stalls have been divided to
become Cinemas Two and Three each
seating 250 people. Their projectors are
Bauer U4. Dolby digital sound is
installed in all cinemas. The Piccadilly
is a heritage listed building. A $120,000
five year upgrade of fire safety and
other council requirements is planned.
Top and centre: The distinctive arrow-
head or chevron motif enhances the
exterior and the staircase.
Bottom: The balcony as Cinema One.
CINEMARECORD 2004 27