Civic Theatre

Opening its doors in 1929, the mighty Civic is one of seven ‘atmospheric theatres’ remaining in the world and a fine survivor from cinema’s Golden Age. The auditorium has lavish Moorish decoration and a starlit southern-hemisphere sky in the ceiling, complete with cloud projections. The foyer is an Indian indulgence, with elephants and monkeys hanging from every conceivable fixture. Buddhas were planned to decorate the street frontage but were considered too risqué at the time – they chose neoclassical naked boys instead!

If at all possible, try to attend a performance here. It’s mainly used for touring musicals, big premieres and Film Festival screenings.