Page 33 - CinemaRecord #81

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the release strategy saw the mainstream cinemas
closer to the city screen a particular title sooner
than the ones further out.
In his article in CinemaRecord (issues 51 & 53,
2006) Brian Miller gives the example of a 1952
release movie being screened, as it moves week
by week through the hierarchy of cinemas, in
week six of an eight week release pattern at the
‘independent’ Paramount. Similarly, the Plaza
screens a 1951 movie in week six in a similar
process within Independent Theatres.

In April 1955 a new screen was installed at the
Paramount WR DOORZ ¿OPV WR EH SUHVHQWHG LQ
CinemSscope and VistaVision. The 30 foot (9.1
metres) wide screen stretched from wall to wall
and “is one of the biggest in the metropolitan
area”.
Alterations to the theatre for the installation
of the equipment, together with a new heating
system, a re-design of the stage and alterations
to the emergency exits on either side of the new
proscenium cost an estimated $12,000.

The Robe was the movie that opened the new
screen and ran for a week commencing 28
th
April. Other CinemaScope movies advertised The plan to enlarge the Plaza was never carried
as coming attractions were Three Coins in a out but 1956 hand-drawn plans in the Public
Fountain, The Black Widow, The Egyptian, Seven 5HFRUGV ¿OH GHWDLOHG SURSRVHG DOWHUDWLRQV WR WKH
Brides for Seven Brothers, The Student Prince 3OD]D 7KH ¿OH FRQWDLQV WKH QRWH WKDW WKH SODQV
and Rose Marie. were never carried out, however “alterations and
renovations” were made in July/August 1957
In the same newspaper article detailing the when the theatre was partially closed for a month,
alterations to the Paramount, Harold Kitchen with screenings only on Thursdays to Saturdays
announced that the Plaza Theatre would be to allow the alterations to be made.
extended and remodelled “in the near future”.
The theatre was to be enlarged to take in the The local newspaper reported that patrons were
adjoining vacant block of land in Portman Street “now assured of luxurious accommodation at the
with entirely new equipment installed. “When the popular theatre for the facilities now provided
work has been completed the Plaza will retain its ensure a clear view of the pictures screened from
intimate atmosphere.” every angle. Seating has also been improved.”

CINEMAREC ORD 2014 33