Page 34 - CinemaRecord #76C

Rear of former Austral Theatre.

Former Austral Theatre, Gawler.

The bottom end of Murray Street (at number
27) would soon boast a new picture-theatre
called the Astral. Built on the site of the old
“White Works”, the Astral was operated by
a Mr. Laycock. As he was a coach painter
and decorator, the interior of the theatre was
very tastefully decorated.

The Astral ran silent films and a Mr.
Old Austral Theatre as it is today.
Langbein was one of the musicians
in the orchestra accompanying the
movies. In later years, when audiences
opted for an even newer theatre, the
Astral was used as dance hall. The
building still stands albeit in use as
retail/office premises. The Regal was built on land originally
occupied by the showrooms of the James
In 1934, Regal Amusements Ltd., a Martin Foundry and what was the front foyer
syndicate consisting of a Mr. Boyce and of the theatre (now converted to shops) was
others began construction of the Regal built over cellars belonging to the foundry
Theatre on the corner of Murray Street complex. Limestone for the walls was carted
and Calton Road in Gawler. This sydicate, by Ron Sanders from Loo's Ostrich Farm.
which named its circuit National The theatre opened on 23rd January 1935.
Theatres, also built a theatre in Prospect,
as well as the Princess at Marryatville,
and the Wonderview at Victor Harbour.
The high standard of the new Regal
Austral Theatre in the early 1990s. would ensure that it would soon become
the only theatre in the town.

James Martin stores in 1905.

Regal Theatre, Gawler. The James Martin statue was erected in 1903 and remained in situ (with toilets behind) for many years until finally relocated.

34 2012 CINEM AREC ORD