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Ascot Theatre and Gardens 33 Great Eastern Highway, Rivervale, WA - 1919.

The opening ceremony of the Riversdale Hall took place on February 22, 1919

Statement of Significance & Historical Background

The opening ceremony of the Riversdale Hall took place on February 22, 1919 at 3 pm by the Hon. R.T. Robinson M.L.A. The Chairman of the Committee was Mr H.G. Duncan and the Secretary Mr W. Newey. This was followed by a Concert at 8pm and dancing at 9.30pm.

Some of the first motion pictures were shown here

The Hall was built by the efforts of the dedicated local citizens, particularly the Newey family. This group of citizens called themselves ‘The Riversdale Progress Association’. Some of the first motion pictures were shown here and the ‘Belmont Young Men’s Association’ met here every Friday night for gymnastics.

Unfortunately, the Road Board had not seen fit to take over the control of the Hall, which was heavily mortgaged. When the depression of the late 1920’s and early 1930’s arrived, the payments could not be met, resulting in the Hall being sold.

This was the district’s only picture theatre.

The establishment then became a billiard saloon. At the conclusion of the Second World War, the Hall returned to its original use - a picture theatre. This was the district’s only picture theatre.

Theatre gardens were added to the side of the building

A brick entry and projection box was added to the front of the building. Later, theatre gardens were added to the side of the building and greatly enjoyed in the warm weather. The coming of television saw the demise of many of these attractions in the metropolitan area.

This building was used for commercial purposes until it was demolished. A demolition licence was issued on 4 March 2004.

Contributed by Greg Lynch -