We have visited Broome on many occasions over the last 10 years. It’s our happy place, where we go to rest, relax and refuel our batteries.
On our last visit, we finally got around to having an evening watching a movie under the stars at the historic Sun Picture Gardens.
The picture theatre boasts the title of the oldest open-air movies in the world, having opened in Chinatown in 1916.
The picture theatre is still as it was originally built with rows of deck chairs, (a little uncomfortable on the legs if you’re short like me if I am to be honest) some undercover some open to the stars. There is also a small lawn area if you prefer to sit on a blanket – quite popular with children.
There are two shows per evening, each one with a different movie, and whilst watching the movie you can experience the added attraction of having planes come in to land over your head, as the movie theatre is directly under the flight path for the airport. Although the noise of the planes is a slight distraction, it is such a different experience as to be a novelty. In addition to the planes it is most probable that you will also see the odd gecko running across the screen, and it would be advisable to make use of the mozzie repellent available in the foyer, but don’t let this put you off, this is such a memorable, nostalgic evening that cannot be experienced in today’s modern multi-screened cinema complexes that it would be a real shame to miss the opportunity.
During the day, whilst there are no movies showing, the theatre is usually open to the public and you can just walk in, look around and soak up the atmosphere, no cost involved. The foyer is like a museum, displaying historic projection equipment, and the walls are lined with old movie posters and information on the history of the theatre.
So if you find yourself in Broome, pop into Sun Picture Gardens and step back in time to a bygone era.
DETAILS.
Sun Picture Gardens
Carnarvon Street, Broome
Tel: 9192 1077
Prices: Adults. $17.50
Children (3-15 yrs). $12.50
Concession $13.50
Seniors $12.50
Family (2A &2C). $55.00
Tickets available at the door. Cash only, no EFTPOS facilities
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