Are you a movie lover looking for a unique and memorable experience in Melbourne? If so, you should not miss the Astor Theatre, a historic and heritage-listed cinema that offers a diverse and eclectic range of films, from classics to cult favourites, from foreign to independent, from silent to musical. The Astor Theatre is more than just a place to watch movies; it is a cultural institution that celebrates the art and history of cinema, as well as the architecture and ambiance of a bygone era.
In this article, we will explore the history, heritage, and features of the Astor Theatre, as well as provide practical information for visitors, such as how to reach, what to expect, and what to do nearby. Whether you are a local or a tourist, a solo traveller or a family, a casual viewer or a cinephile, you will find something to enjoy and appreciate at the Astor Theatre.
History of the Astor Theatre
The Astor Theatre opened its doors in 1936, as one of the many single screen cinemas that dotted the suburbs of Melbourne. It was designed by Ray Morton Taylor, a prominent architect who also worked on the Regent Theatre and the State Library of Victoria. The Astor Theatre features a striking jazz moderne style, with a symmetrical facade, a geometric pattern, and a neon sign. The interior of the theatre is equally impressive, with a grand staircase, a marble foyer, a chandelier, and a mural. The theatre has a seating capacity of 1,150, and boasts a state-of-the-art sound and visual system, including a Barco 4K Digital Projector, a 35mm/70mm film projector, and a Dolby Atmos surround sound.
The Astor Theatre has had a tumultuous and colourful history, changing hands and fortunes several times over the decades. It was originally owned by the Diamond family, who ran it until 1965, when they sold it to the St Kilda Synagogue. The synagogue leased the theatre to various operators, who experimented with different genres and formats, such as Greek films, live performances, and adult movies. The theatre faced closure and demolition in the 1970s, due to the decline of cinema attendance and the rise of multiplexes. However, it was saved by George Florence, a passionate film enthusiast who took over the lease in 1982 and revived the theatre with his innovative and diverse programming.
Florence introduced the concept of repertory movie programming, which involves screening a different double feature every night, often based on a theme, a director, a genre, or a star. He also curated special events and programs, such as film festivals, retrospectives, arts on screen, and themed nights, such as Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. Florence ran the theatre until 2015, when he retired and handed over the lease to Palace Cinemas, a leading independent cinema chain in Australia.
Heritage Listing of the Astor Theatre
The Astor Theatre is not only a historic cinema, but also a heritage site, recognized by the National Trust of Australia. The National Trust is a non-government organization that aims to protect and promote the natural and cultural heritage of Australia. The Astor Theatre was added to the National Trust Register in 1989, as a place of historical, architectural, and social significance. According to the official citation, the Astor Theatre is:
“one of the last and best examples of the large, single screen suburban cinemas which were built in Melbourne in the inter-war years. It is an outstanding example of the jazz moderne style of architecture, which was influenced by the art deco movement and the machine age. It is also significant for its original fittings and furnishings, which have been well preserved and maintained. The Astor Theatre is also important for its association with George Florence, who has made a significant contribution to the cultural life of Melbourne through his innovative and eclectic programming of films at the Astor Theatre since 1982.”
The Astor Theatre is one of the few remaining single screen cinemas in Melbourne, and one of the oldest and largest in Australia. It is a rare and valuable example of the golden age of cinema, and a testament to the enduring appeal and power of film.
Features and Facilities of the Astor Theatre
The Astor Theatre offers a variety of features and facilities that make it a unique and enjoyable destination for movie lovers. Some of these include:
Movie programming: The Astor Theatre screens a different double feature every night, often based on a theme, a director, a genre, or a star. The theatre showcases a wide range of films, from classics to cult favourites, from foreign to independent, from silent to musical. The theatre also hosts special events and programs, such as film festivals, retrospectives, arts on screen, and themed nights, such as Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. The theatre also occasionally screens live performances, such as opera, ballet, and theatre, from around the world. The theatre publishes a quarterly calendar, which lists the upcoming films and events, and is available online or in print at the theatre.
Projection formats: The Astor Theatre is one of the few cinemas in the world that can project both digital and film formats, including 35mm and 70mm. The theatre has a Barco 4K Digital Projector, which delivers high-quality and high-resolution images, as well as a 35mm/70mm film projector, which preserves the original and authentic look and feel of film. The theatre also has a Dolby Atmos surround sound system, which creates a realistic and immersive sound experience. The theatre also has a large and curved screen, which enhances the visual impact and scope of the films.
Membership options: The Astor Theatre offers a membership program, which allows patrons to enjoy various benefits and discounts, such as cheaper tickets, priority booking, free popcorn, and invitations to exclusive events and screenings. The membership costs $60 per year, and can be purchased online or at the theatre. The membership also grants access to other Palace Cinemas across Australia, which offer a similar range of films and events.
Overlook Café & Bar: The Overlook Café & Bar is located next to the Astor Theatre, and is named after the hotel in The Shining, one of the most popular and iconic films screened at the theatre. The café and bar offers a selection of drinks and snacks, such as coffee, tea, wine, beer, soft drinks, cakes, sandwiches, and pies. The café and bar is open from 6 pm to 11 pm on weekdays, and from 1 pm to 11 pm on weekends. The café and bar is a perfect place to relax and socialize before or after watching a movie at the Astor Theatre.
Nearby Attractions
The Astor Theatre is located in St Kilda, a vibrant and cosmopolitan suburb of Melbourne, which offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Some of these include:
St Kilda Beach:
St Kilda Beach is one of the most popular and famous beaches in Melbourne, and is only a short walk from the Astor Theatre. The beach is a great place to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, as well as to participate in various water sports, such as swimming, surfing, sailing, and kite surfing. The beach also has a long and scenic promenade, which is ideal for walking, cycling, or rollerblading. The beach also has a pier, which offers a stunning view of the city skyline, and is home to a colony of little penguins, which can be seen at dusk.
Luna Park:
Luna Park is an amusement park that has been operating since 1912, and is one of the oldest and most iconic landmarks in Melbourne. The park is located across the road from the Astor Theatre, and is easily recognizable by its giant smiling face entrance. The park features a variety of rides and attractions, such as roller coasters, carousels, ferris wheels, and haunted houses. The park also hosts various events and festivals, such as Halloween, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. The park is open from 11 am to 11 pm on weekends, and from 4 pm to 11 pm on weekdays.
Palais Theatre:
The Palais Theatre is a historic and heritage-listed theatre that was built in 1927, and is located next to Luna Park. The theatre is one of the largest and grandest theatres in Australia, and has a seating capacity of 2,896. The theatre hosts a variety of live performances, such as concerts, comedy, musicals, and theatre. The theatre has hosted some of the most famous and influential artists and performers in the world, such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Elton John, Madonna, and Beyoncé. The theatre also has a stunning art deco style, with a domed ceiling, a chandelier, and a mural.
Acland Street:
Acland Street is a lively and bustling street that runs parallel to the beach, and is only a few minutes away from the Astor Theatre. The street is known for its cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops, which offer a diverse and eclectic range of cuisines, cultures, and styles. The street is especially famous for its cake shops, which display a mouth-watering array of cakes, pastries, and desserts. The street is also a hub for nightlife, entertainment, and art, as it features various pubs, clubs, galleries, and street performers.
Practical Information
Opening hours:
The Astor Theatre is open every day, except for Mondays, when it is closed. The theatre opens at 6 pm on weekdays, and at 1 pm on weekends. The theatre closes after the last session of the night, which varies depending on the film and the day. The theatre also opens for special events and programs, which may have different timings and prices. Visitors can check the theatre’s calendar for the latest and updated schedule and information.
Session times:
The Astor Theatre screens a different double feature every night, usually starting at 7:30 pm on weekdays, and at 2 pm and 7:30 pm on weekends. The session times may vary depending on the film and the day, and some films may be screened only once or twice. Visitors can check the theatre’s calendar for the exact and updated session times and information.
Ticket prices:
The ticket prices for the Astor Theatre are as follows:
Adult: $18
Concession: $14
Senior: $12
Child: $12
Member: $12
Special events and programs may have different and higher prices, depending on the film and the day. Visitors can check the theatre’s calendar for the specific and updated ticket prices and information.
Discounts:
The Astor Theatre offers various discounts and deals for its patrons, such as:
Membership: The Astor Theatre offers a membership program, which costs $60 per year, and allows patrons to enjoy cheaper tickets, priority booking, free popcorn, and invitations to exclusive events and screenings. The membership also grants access to other Palace Cinemas across Australia, which offer a similar range of films and events. The membership can be purchased online or at the theatre.
Gift vouchers: The Astor Theatre offers gift vouchers, which can be used to buy tickets, memberships, or merchandise at the theatre. The gift vouchers can be purchased online or at the theatre, and are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
Group bookings: The Astor Theatre offers group bookings, which allow patrons to book the entire theatre or a part of it for private or corporate events, such as birthdays, anniversaries, fundraisers, or screenings. The group bookings can be customized according to the needs and preferences of the patrons, such as the film, the date, the time, the catering, and the decorations. The group bookings can be arranged by contacting the theatre by phone or email.
Booking options:
The Astor Theatre offers various booking options for its patrons, such as:
Online: The Astor Theatre allows patrons to book tickets online, through its website, www.astortheatre.net.au. The patrons can choose the film, the date, the time, and the number of tickets, and pay by credit card or PayPal. The patrons can then print the tickets at home, or show them on their mobile devices at the theatre.
Phone: The Astor Theatre allows patrons to book tickets by phone, by calling (+61) 3 9510 1414. The patrons can choose the film, the date, the time, and the number of tickets, and pay by credit card. The patrons can then collect the tickets at the theatre, or have them mailed to their address.
In person: The Astor Theatre allows patrons to book tickets in person, by visiting the theatre’s box office, which is located at the entrance of the theatre. The patrons can choose the film, the date, the time, and the number of tickets, and pay by cash, credit card, or gift voucher. The patrons can then collect the tickets at the theatre, or have them mailed to their address.
How to reach
The Astor Theatre can be reached by various modes of transport, such as:
Public transport:
The Astor Theatre is well connected by public transport, and can be easily accessed by tram, train, or bus. The nearest tram stop is Dandenong Road/Chapel Street, which is serviced by tram routes 3, 3a, 16, and 78. The nearest train station is Windsor, which is on the Sandringham line. The nearest bus stop is Chapel Street/Carlisle Street, which is serviced by bus routes 216, 219, and 220.
Car:
The Astor Theatre can be reached by car, and has a limited number of parking spaces available at the rear of the theatre, which can be accessed via Duke Street. The parking spaces are free for patrons, but are subject to availability and time restrictions. The patrons can also find street parking or paid parking nearby, but should be aware of the parking signs and rules.
Bike:
The Astor Theatre can be reached by bike, and has a bike rack available at the front of the theatre, which can be used by patrons to lock their bikes. The bike rack is free for patrons, but is subject to availability and security.
Tips and Advice
Here are some tips and advice for visitors who want to make the most of their visit to the Astor Theatre:
Book in advance: The Astor Theatre is a popular and busy cinema, and some films and events may sell out quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to book tickets in advance, either online, by phone, or in person, to avoid disappointment and secure a seat. Booking in advance also allows patrons to choose their preferred seats, as the theatre has allocated seating.
Bring snacks: The Astor Theatre allows patrons to bring their own snacks and drinks, as long as they are not hot, smelly, or noisy. The theatre also has a candy bar, which sells popcorn, ice cream, candy, soft drinks, and water. The theatre also has a café and bar, which sells coffee, tea, wine, beer, and snacks. The patrons can enjoy their snacks and drinks inside the theatre, but should be respectful and courteous to other patrons and staff, and dispose of their rubbish properly.
Dress appropriately: The Astor Theatre is a historic and heritage-listed cinema, and has a certain dress code and etiquette that patrons should follow. The patrons should dress smartly and comfortably, and avoid wearing anything that is too casual, revealing, or offensive. The patrons should also avoid wearing anything that is too bright, flashy, or noisy, as it may distract or annoy other patrons and staff. The patrons should also respect the theatre’s rules and regulations, such as turning off their mobile devices, not talking or texting during the film, and not smoking or vaping inside the theatre.
The Astor Theatre is a must-visit destination for movie lovers in Melbourne, as it offers a unique and memorable experience that is unlike any other cinema. The Astor Theatre is a historic and heritage-listed cinema, that features a stunning jazz moderne style, a state-of-the-art sound and visual system, and a diverse and eclectic range of films and events. The Astor Theatre is more than just a place to watch movies; it is a cultural institution that celebrates the art and history of cinema, as well as the architecture and ambiance of a bygone era.
Whether you are a local or a tourist, a solo traveller or a family, a casual viewer or a cinephile, you will find something to enjoy and appreciate at the Astor Theatre.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now, and experience the magic of the Astor Theatre.
