Photo Info

Taken on: June 18, 2004

Uploaded on: February 18, 2026

Size: 465.1 KB

Views: 30

Full EXIF: View all

License:

Photo - from left Jack. Max & Amos - The three brothers who built the Menora theatre in honour of their father’s memory.

The Menora Theatre would be built by his sons Jack, Max & Amos (possibly at the time the youngest cinema owners in WA) It was decided that the boys would actively assist the builder to keep the costs down. The theatre was to be located alongside the already established Menora Picture Gardens.

Celebrated theatre architect Samuel B. Rosenthal was contracted to design the building. Construction to be on a single level Art Deco style by using cement bricks supplied by Dunbrick (WA) Ltd. Local builder Steve Perica would supervise the construction. The capacity of the theatre would be 800 to feature wide-seat spacing with concealed lighting installed in the auditorium ceiling. A substantial modern proscenium arch was to be created to house royal blue drape curtains. These would enhance the appearance and atmosphere of the auditorium and co-ordinate with the seating, carpeting and architectural details.

The foyer of the cinema was built in the shape of a boomerang and the floor lined in Mediterranean terrazzo. The plaster mould ceiling to be fashioned in the shape of a chess board, displaying squares of various colours. The completed building measured at 132ft x 57ft. The projection equipment consisted of Centrex projectors and bases, fitted with 14 inch carbon arc lamps, while the sound system was driven by a Westrex 20 amplifier.

The Menora Theatre was opened on 20th May 1954 with the Samuel Goldwyn production of “Hans Christian Anderson” starring Danny Kaye. This was presented on a wide panoramic screen.

The night was officiated by Mr. M.E. Hamer, Chairman of the Perth Road Board who congratulated the Machlin family on the design and presentation of a magnificent cinema. Many local industry identities attended, including RKO Pictures who supplied the opening programme. All proceeds from the night went to the James Mitchell Spastic Centre, a favourite charity of the late state Governor. CinemaScope was installed the following year with a screen which measured an impressive 36ft wide.

Contributed by Greg Lynch -