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Restored seats were added in
January 1995, followed by the main
leadlight window at the head of the
marble staircase. It was finally
beginning to really look like a Regent
Theatre. As projection room controls
were added, a number of trial
screenings were organised to test out
various aspects of the theatre and make
modifications where necessary. By
1997, the dream had finally been
realised - a new little Regent Theatre
was created. It was time for a grand
opening !
This took place on Saturday 4th
October 1997, with two sessions and a
sumptuous celebratory meal between.
The Regent Brass entertained guests
outside in a large marquee between
sessions. Home made "Regent"
chocolates were presented to each guest
as they arrived, and they also received a
special opening program and booklet in
a red velvet carry bag. Three leading
Australian theatre organists, Tony
Fenelon, David Johnston, and Chris
McPhee, performed on organ and/or
piano. David Johnston also provided a
live accompaniment to a silent movie.
A selection of shorts, including a 3D
slide presentation, rounded out the
program.
It was my desire that it would help
keep alive some of the memories and
traditions of the original large
counterparts that brought so much
pleasure to so many people.
Although built primarily to entertain
friends, word gets around, and from
time to time I have welcomed an
assortment of groups to the theatre for
individual shows. These have ranged
from camera clubs and church groups
to people celebrating special occasions
like a 50th Birthday or a Wedding
Anniversary. Some nights have been
fancy dress nights to enhance the
enjoyment of a particular film. Groups
of former staff of the old Regent
Adelaide and other theatre interest
groups have also enjoyed visits. Added
to this there have been quite a number
of visitors from interstate and overseas.
Countries represented so far have been
England, Scotland, Switzerland, Japan,
Canada, the United States, and New
Zealand.

Top: The completed foyer December 2001. Centre: The three featured organists –
Tony Fenelon, David Johnston and Chris McPhee – with John Thiele (far right) at the
grand opening, Saturday 4 October 1997. Above: Chris McPhee with Kylie Mallett (Miss
Regent) on Opening Night. Notice the tray of special chocolates with the R motif.

24 2004 CINEMARECORD