Capitol Theatre, Perth
An Art Nouveau cinema and theatre that became a cultural hub for mid-century Perth before its demolition in 1968.
At a glance
Designed by George Temple-Poole and opened in May 1929, the Capitol Theatre was a lavishly appointed cinema and performance venue on William Street. For nearly four decades it hosted film screenings, theatrical performances, state functions and concerts before being demolished to make way for an office building.
History
The theatre officially opened on 4 May 1929, with Mayor James T. Franklin presiding. The inaugural programme featured a screening of Freckles, orchestral performances, the Capitol Theatre’s own orchestra, Leah Miller’s Beauty Ballet, and Syd Roy’s Lyricals vaudeville act.
During the 1930s, the Capitol became a popular cinema destination. The 1940s and 1950s saw it regularly host formal functions for Western Australian state and city governance. In October 1960, British skiffle pioneer Lonnie Donegan opened his first Australian tour at the theatre, with UK country duo Miki and Griff on the bill.
Entrepreneur Thomas Wardle purchased the theatre in 1966, when Bob Dylan performed there during his first Perth visit. Wardle sold it in 1968, and the building was demolished shortly after. The Capitol Theatre was lost prior to Western Australia establishing effective heritage conservation legislation.
What you see
The theatre’s facade featured a striking 12.2-by-6.1-metre illuminated sign mounted above the roof on William Street. Interior appointments reflected Art Nouveau taste: stencil work adorned the lounge foyer and upper crush area, while a 4.9-by-3.7-metre chandelier containing 300 lights hung prominently.
A marble bust of Rudolph Valentino anchored the foyer—Perth patrons reportedly adorned its lips with constant kisses in homage to the silent film star. This bust now resides in the Western Australian Performing Arts Museum collection at His Majesty’s Theatre.
Cultural significance
The Capitol Theatre embodied the interwar cinema boom and Perth’s growing cultural ambitions. Its design and ornamental programme reflected aspirations toward cosmopolitan sophistication. The venue later bridged theatrical and political life, serving the state establishment during its mid-century heyday.
The theatre’s demolition remains emblematic of Perth’s pre-heritage-legislation losses, grouped with similar historic venues like the Esplanade Hotel and Barracks Arch. The chandelier, salvaged before demolition, now illuminates Melbourne’s Princess Theatre.
Key facts
- Opened: 4 May 1929
- Architect: George Temple-Poole
- Location: 10 William Street, Perth, Australia
- Coordinates: −31.955514, 115.856398
- Demolished: 1968
Practical information & getting there
The Capitol Theatre no longer stands. The site on William Street now hosts an office building. To trace Perth’s theatrical heritage, visit His Majesty’s Theatre, which houses the salvaged Valentino bust, or view the Capitol’s chandelier in Melbourne’s Princess Theatre.
Sources & resources
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