The 1881 Bequest Society and the Caulfield Grammar School Foundation hosted an event on the 23rd of July for its members and guests at the Capitol Theatre in Swanston Street Melbourne. Renowned architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin designed this Art Deco theatre. It is an iconic venue known for its unique architectural design and fascinating history. The Capitol Theatre is one hundred years old this year.
Our tour guide for this event was the cultural historian, Kenneth W Park. Kenneth makes well over 130 presentations annually for universities, museums, conferences and cultural organisations all over the world.
Kenneth took us on an enthralling journey, highlighting its history as well as revealing the conservation of the interior spaces. He also talked about the incorporation of a very impressive new lighting system that brings to life the fabulous geometric theatre ceiling which resembles a crystalline cave. This ceiling is often illuminated in vibrant colours enhancing its otherworldly effect.
Since 1999 the theatre has been managed by RMIT University which uses it for lectures, events and film screenings. It is a hub for arts and cultural events, live performances and creative workshops. The Capitol has also hosted various events for the Melbourne International Film Festiva l(MIFF) and other prominent arts organisations.
Some of the proceeds for this event were donated to support the Capitol Theatre especially the reinstallation of the original theatre organ. Guests were shown a short film on the history of the organ. As we learned, the Capitol was also the home of the first large Wurlitzer Organ to come to Australia. The Wurlitzer was used to provide music and sound effects for the films, when the orchestra was not used. After “sound” films took over it was used for musical entertainment in between shows.
Guests later enjoyed a delicious Devonshire tea at the Collins Café House which is situated in the National Trust listed Bank of New Zealand Building which dates back to 1867.
These events and activities are designed to engage with our Society members, acknowledge and thank them in their lifetime. We also want to encourage others to join them and leave a legacy. We are always pleased to see some of our Society members and importantly some new faces. We look forward to welcoming everyone again at our next event.
If you would like to learn more about the 1881 Bequest Society, please contact either Andrew Cole or Debra Stiebel in the Foundation office.
