Windback Wednesday - Princess Theatre

The Princess Theatre, today known as the Regal Theatre, was designed by South Australian architect Chris A. Smith and officially opened by Burnside Council Chairman J.A. Harper on 24 November 1925. Opening night featured the silent film Little Annie Rooney, starring Mary Pickford, and a performance by Miss Elsa Lewis, the whistling violinist.

The Princess Theatre was owned by National Theatres, whose slogan was "pictures for the people owned by the people". As "talkies" hadn't been invented yet, the Princess Theatre was only outfitted for silent films and pantomimes. All supporting music and sound-effects were provided by the Princess Theatre Orchestra, who were seated in a purpose-built orchestra pit below the main screen.

National Theatres liquidated in 1928 and its circuit of theatres, including the Princess Theatre, were taken over by Ozone Amusements Limited.

On Sunday 9 November the City of Burnside will celebrate the Regal Theatre's 100th anniversary, featuring a live performance by the Atlantic Street Band and a screening of The Great Gatsby (2013). Find out more and book your tickets now at https://www.burnside.sa.gov.au/Whats-On/Public-Events/Regal-Theatre-turns-100

Photograph: Interior of the Princess Theatre in 1925, courtesy of the Smith Family and Colin Flint. Burnside Local History Collection.