Strand Theatre

Built on the site of Newcastle Borough Markets. The Strand Theatre was opened on 27th April 1916 with “Ashmead Bartlett’s Pictures of Gallipoli and Anzac” on the screen. It was designed by architectural firm Kaberry & Chard in a Spanish & French style. By 1920 it was operated by the Union Cinemas chain. Around 1921 Kaberry & Chard were brought back to alter the stage to enlarge it for live performances.

In 1937 it was remodelled in a Streamline Moderne style to the plans of architect Charles Bohringer. On 27th April 1942 it was taken over by the Fullers Theatres Pty. Ltd. chain and a new RCA sound system was installed, replacing an earlier Western Electric sound system.

It was taken back by Greater Union Cinemas in 1953 and they installed CinemaScope in 1955. In December 1978 it was taken over by Showcase Theatres on a short-term lease. They operated the Stand Theatre until it was closed on 23rd May 1979 with Robby Benson in “Ice Castles”. The Newcastle City Council (who owned the building) had decided to replace it with a shopping arcade development. Demolition began just a few weeks after closing.

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