Piccadilly Theatre and Arcade
An art deco cinema and shopping arcade that anchored Perth’s entertainment district for over seven decades, now restored to its original glamour.
At a glance
The Piccadilly Theatre and Arcade occupy a prominent corner site on Hay Street in Perth’s central business district. This art deco masterpiece opened in 1938 as both a cinema palace and a commercial arcade, linking Hay Street through to Murray Street. The complex remained a cultural landmark and operational cinema until 2013.
History
Architect William T. Leighton designed the theatre and arcade for mining entrepreneur Claude de Bernales. The venue opened in 1938, becoming a social and entertainment hub for generations of Perth residents.
In 1984, the aging complex underwent major refurbishment that restored its original character and function. The restoration work earned recognition from the Royal Australian Institute of Architecture (WA Chapter) in 1986. The Piccadilly operated as the last cinema in Perth’s CBD until closure in 2013, eventually superseded by the Palace Cinema at Raine Square in 2018. Following a three-year renovation program, the arcade reopened in November 2021.
What you see
The design exemplifies art deco style characteristic of 1930s Perth. The cinema and arcade form an integrated commercial and entertainment complex, unified by period architectural detail. The 1984 refurbishment preserved the original aesthetic while updating systems and facilities.
Cultural significance
The Piccadilly represents a pivotal moment in Perth’s cultural development—the era when cinema was the dominant popular entertainment. Its longevity as an operating cinema made it an institution for multiple generations. The complex is recognized by both the National Trust of Australia and the State Heritage Register, acknowledging its architectural and historical importance to Western Australia.
Key facts
- Location: 700–704 Hay Street, Perth, Western Australia
- Opened: 1938
- Architect: William T. Leighton
- Style: Art deco
- Heritage status: National Trust listed; State Heritage Register
- Coordinates: −31.9536, 115.8582
Practical information & getting there
The arcade is located in central Perth on Hay Street, accessible from surrounding streets. You can reach the site via public transport or on foot from nearby attractions. Check ahead for current opening hours and any upcoming events or exhibitions in the restored arcade spaces.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
See this place and what’s around it →📷 Diventa un fotografo di Cultural Heritage Online
Condividi le tue foto dei luoghi: restano pubblicate con la tua firma come autore. Più vengono viste, più ti fai conoscere — e presto un concorso premierà le foto più apprezzate.
Accedi o registrati gratis per aggiungere una fotoDo you manage this place?
This page is read by travellers and heritage enthusiasts who find it on Google. Keep it accurate — and make it work for you. Free for non-profit heritage institutions.