Page 32 - CinemaRecord #76C
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awler is a commercial centre for the
GMid-North districts of South Australia
and being located only 44km from the state
capital of Adelaide, has now evolved from a
bustling country town to virtually being an
outer satellite suburb of the state capital.
According to Coombe's 'History of Gawler'
the first appearance of the cinema in Gawler
was in 1897. Early screenings had regularly
taken place at the Gawler Institute which
over the years operated under several names
e.g. the Strand, and the Century.
White Star Pictures, run by a Mr. Bert Carson,
opened in the Anglican Hall at Gawler South
Movie posters outside the Gawler Institute in 1917. on 3 October, 1914. Shows continued there
until 20 January, 1923. A naming competition
for a proposed new theatre was held prior to the
closure of the venue, and on 27 January, 1923 the
Lyric, a purpose built, open-air picture-theatre,
run by Mr. Jim McKenzie, opened.
Meeting at the Gawler Institute.
Gawler Institute - Governor’s Luncheon 1897. Gawler Institute Pictures, 1920s.
32 2012 CINEM AREC ORD
