Page 24 - CR

Kings Cross Metro

At one time, I applied to work on the I recall that for Molly Brown at Metro’s
stage musical Applause with Eve Arden St. James Theatre, high on the side
and Judi Connelli at the Metro Kings wall that faced Circular Quay they had
Cross (ex-Minerva). painted a HUGE ad for the movie that
could be seen for miles!
Surprisingly I was hired as “Prop
Master” - even though couldn't even I also made my presence known
use a hammer! But I desperately wanted at the Paramount Pictures offices
to work at the Metro, so Dad came in where they used to give me copies of
late at night and helped me build props their US newsletter for distributors
under the stage because there was no which I adored – plus posters and
workshop as such. We had to make a 8x10’s photos!
small revolve for the show.
I loved Sydney’s Prince Edward
The theatre was lovely - I saw the Theatre – the foyers were like a
film Mary Poppins there years before. big Hollywood set from Sunset
Unfortunately Applause closed after Boulevard. Here on one occasion I
only a week – sad, but a wonderful met Noreen Hennessey when My Six
experience in an historical theatre. Love’s was playing - and was shown
I remember seeing lots of great old the workings of the magnificent pipe-
photos of the theatre over the years in organ which came out of the floor as
the manager's office. the movie credits played - I think it
was on prompt side.
I was a huge fan of the old Hollywood
musicals - and especially movies
starring Debbie Reynolds.

I used to boldly go into the MGM offices
near Sydney’s Central Station and tell
them I was a cinema fanatic.

I ended up being given lots of 8x10
lobby-cards and was even invited
to previews of movies in their
theatrette! My favourite was The
Unsinkable Molly Brown which was
in wide-screen - but I don’t think
stereo in their theatrette. Goodness I
must have been pushy!

St James in CinemaScope mode.

24 2011 CINEMAREC ORD