NEW MELBOURNE THEATRE

Evening Star, Issue 22723, 10 August 1937, Page 2

NEW MELBOURNE THEATRE

DEPARTURE IH DESIGN

Many interesting features arc included in the new Hoyts Padua Theatre, which has just been built in Sydney road, Brunswick. The architects set out to plan a theatre that would disregard theatrical tradition. It is claimed that the Padua will bo tho first picture theatre to have a distinctive individuality in aio way allied to the legitimate theatre. It will have a revolving Stag© and a screen that will appear to float in light. In place of the usual proscenium arch there will bo a series of perfectly black receding shutters, between which thin net curtains will bo hung, illuminated from the rear. The screen will form the background of these shutters, and during the screenings there will be nothing to distract the attention from the film. At other times the screen will present an unusual appearance by being circled in light. In design the theatre follows the modern style of architecture. Pale Straw-coloured _ bricks have been used for the walls, in which horizontal lines

in pale green have been introduced. A wall of glass sweeips around the front of the dress circle foyer. The shop fronts and theatre entrances are being finished in pal© green. The entrance doors are being fixed in zinc-sprayed steel frames. All internal doors will bo of pale amber and black zibrana. wood, and the furniture in the foyers will be built in. Opening directly off the circular entrance foyer there will be a “ crying room,” from which mothers with babies will be able to view and hear the pictures. The theatre, which will seat 2,000, will be air-conditioned. The Padua takes its name from one of Brunswick's old residences, which it replaces. FOR CONVENIENCE GUESTS' DRESSING ROOM Instead of the old-fashioned extra cloak room under tho stairs, some new homes boast beautiful modern dressing rooms for -guests. Mirrors line the walls and a modern dressing table ami smartly appointed wardrobe are conveniently placed for the bride’s guests. Bright colours, striking contrasts, or deep pastels are used effectively in these smart powder rooms. If krge enough, a comfortable chaise-longue is a thoughtful addition appreciated by women guests.