Chelsea Cinema

The Chelsea Cinema is the oldest purpose built cinema operating in Adelaide, South Australia. It has a National Trust Commendation and is on the State Heritage Register.

It started its life on November 24, 1925 as a silent cinema named Princess Theatre. Designed by architect Chris A. Smith, the theatre had panels on the side-walls and each side of the proscenium which contained painted frescos. The opening film was Mary Pickford in “Little Annie Rooney”. It went into receivership three years later.

It was purchased by the Waterman family and renamed Ozone Theatre. In 1941 it was completely renovated in an Art Deco style to the plans of architect F. Kenneth Milne, re-opening on 30th May 1941 with Anna Neagle in “Irene”. The Ozone Theatre seated 1,290 in stalls and circle levels on a stadium plan. There was a crying room and a party room at the rear of the stalls, which still exist today.

Hoyts took over in the 1950’s. In 1963 Hoyts sold it to the local Council but leased it back. In 1971 Wallis Theatres won a tender and have operated it since.

It is intended to add three screens on adjacent land next door but maintain and improve the original.

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