CAARP
Cinema and Audience Research Project

In an article dated July 20 1912 the Armadale Theatre was described as 'nearing completion'. It was built by Armadale Picture Theatre Company. The seating capacity of the theatre was 1200. Later (September 14 1912) it was reported that the opening of the theatre had been delayed by "vexatious trade disputes", and it opened a week later. The Armadale theare became affiliated with Hoyts in the late 1920's. It was listed in the Sand and Mc Dougall through the 1930's and then, as the New Armadale through the 40's. It's last listing was apparently in May 1947. (Check on the accuracy of this data- sited from Bertrand files).

Lessees of the Armadale Theatre include: Mendel Snider (1912-21); Associated Theatres/ Hoyts Theatres Ltd (1922-36) and at least two other independent showmen (1937-9).

Posssibly used as a live theatre venue from 1940-1942.

References
1912 'New Picture Theatre in Armadale.', Malvern Standard (Vic. : 1906 - 1931), 21 September, p. 3, viewed 11 October, 2011, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article66391171 (references opening 18 September 1912)

Cinema & Theatre Historical Society 1997, Cinema index : Melbourne cinemas, suburban cinemas, Victorian drive-ins. CATHS, Victoria.

Ryan, R 2003 'Ryan Ray Remembers' Cinema Record no. 40

Sands and Mc Dougall 1912-1947
1918, 'Theatre usher's claim- action against Armadale's theatre', The Prahran Telegraph, December 14, p.5.- Bertrand, I Cinema file: St Kilda (unpublished research).
Advertisements in 'The Prahran Telegraph', August 8, 1914- Bertrand, I Cinema file: St Kilda (unpublished research).
Advertisements in 'The Prahran Telegraph', October 10, 1914, p.5- Bertrand, I Cinema file: St Kilda (unpublished research).
Advertisements in 'The Prahran Telegraph', November 9, 1918, p.8- Bertrand, I Cinema file: St Kilda (unpublished research).