BROOME may be known for pearls and cyclones, but history buffs will gather in one of the town’s most historic locations to celebrate a century of al fresco movie-going this month.
The Sun Picture Theatre, the oldest operational outdoor picture garden in the world as acknowledged by Guinness World Records in 2004, will celebrate its 100th anniversary on August 26.
After being built in the heart of China-town at the turn of the 20th century and being used as an Asian emporium and Japanese playhouse, the theatre was bought by pearler Ted Hunter in 1913 and officially opened as Sun Pictures on December 9, 1916.
It opened in the era of silent films and screenings were accompanied by a pianist. It quickly became a social meeting place with its marble soda fountain and cane and deck chair seating.
The theatre has survived tidal floods, World War II, cyclones and the invention and commercial development of TV and video.
In 1942, then owners William Henry Milner and Rupert Leonard Knight were forced to evacuate and two days later Broome was bombed by Japanese Zeros.
Centenary celebrations will start at 4pm with the unveiling of the Sun Pictures Walk of Fame on Carnarvon Street featuring plaques commemorating the theatre’s history.
An evening event will take place from 7.30 will include supper, live performances and the reflections of several identities who have been associated with the theatre over the years. Tickets are $75 each.
