CAARP
Cinema and Audience Research Project

Mr F.C.Blacklock began construction of a new theatre on the site of the former Federal Skating Rink, opening as the Theatre Royal on May 14, 1914. It was leased to Mr Phil Howard who used it to show silent films.
Later it was developed as an open air cinema. Open-air screenings began behind the theatre on December 22, 1920.
Mr C H Smith licensee of the Mechanics Theatre was reported to have purchased the freehold of the Theatre Royal (jan 9 1936, The Argus)

The theatre was converted into a dance hall in 1937

References
Howson, D 'From mechanics institute to multiplex', Cinema Record, no. 10, 1995.