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by Brian Hunt

ust three kilometres from the centre of the Peter took us beneath the stage and gave a enthusiasm and hospitality generated by the
JCity of Adelaide is the suburb of detailed explanation of the workings of the volunteers, both young and old. The Capri
Goodwood, where the Capri Theatre is Wurlitzer Organ. Peter played the Wurlitzer has an audience in excess of 60,000 per year.
located at 141 Goodwood Road (on the corner for 15 minutes before the All of the profits from events held at the
of Gilbert Street). The streets of Goodwood commencement of the first show, theatre go towards keeping this heritage
feature well-preserved, late Victorian and which was The Dressmaker. There building alive for future generations.
Edwardian double-fronted stone villas and was a slight technical problem with
good quality modern townhouses. The area is the spotlights during Peter's first The theatre opened as the New
served by two strip shopping centres. organ performance, but a Goodwood Star Theatre
Goodwood Road has its fair share of volunteer with technical on 8 October 1941
restaurants and cafes. King William Road is expertise was on hand to quickly under the control
where boutique shopping is found. rectify this in time for the next of Clifford
performance. We stayed to experience the full Theatres Ltd., and
On a recent visit to the theatre, my wife and I effect of the lighting and sound, and were was the last theatre
were greeted by CATHS member Michael most impressed as Peter played the organ built by the chain. The
Cant, who is also a member of the Theatre before Bridge of Spies (the second feature of architect, Chris Smith (1892-
Organ Society Of Australia (South Australian the night). 1952), was prominent in the design and
Division) Inc. and a volunteer at the theatre. development of picture theatres and municipal
Michael took us on a guided tour of the theatre The Capri Theatre is a not-for-profit buildings in Adelaide and regional South
where we were introduced to all the staff organization, owned and run by a network of Australia. The architectural style of the theatre
members, including Peter Hosking who was generous volunteers from the local is Art Deco/Moderne. This style is highlighted
the organist on the night we attended. community. It was amazing to see the by the curvaceous lines, circles and semi-

34 CINEMARECORD # 89