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he iconic Astor Theatre in the Melbourne suburb of
TSt. Kilda recently celebrated its 75th Anniversary in
grand style with two special functions.
On Sunday March 27th Proprietor and CATHS Member,
George Florence, kindly opened the doors to CATHS for an
inspection of the theatre, followed by a screening of the
beloved and entirely appropriate film Cinema Paradiso.
This was followed a week later on April 3rd with an
official Birthday Party function where a Jazz Band
entertained in the foyer and food and champagne were
provided.
The Astor’s location has had a long and
interesting history which even pre-dates the
existing 1936 building. Originally a livery
stable dating from 1894 existed on the site, its
upper-storey developed into the small
Diamond Picture Theatre, itself later renamed
the Rex around 1914. With opposition from the
nearby from Royal Pictures, the Rex soon
closed and was returned to use as a motor
garage.
This was sold in 1934 and soon demolished
for the erection of a new luxury cinema.
Construction began in December 1935 and
the new Astor Theatre opened in 1936.
With the advent of television, audiences
waned, but the Astor was saved when it found
a new audience with Greek-language films.
When that clientele was later lost to ethnic TV,
the theatre was once again brought back to life
and re-opened in 1982 by George Florence, a
most passionate showman who has remained
successfully at the helm since that time.
Long may that wonderful association
Report by Kevin Adams continue!

Congratulations from CATHS