Historic cinema returns to town

THE once most popular cinema in Ballarat will be coming back to life as part of Heritage Festival thanks to the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute and Showbiz Cinemas.

The Vegas 70 was opened on Sturt Street in 1966 and had the most advanced projection equipment outside of Melbourne.

It was in operation for 15 years and included milk bars, tea rooms and cigarette shops.

“In 1965, John or Jack Anderson, he had been running the drive-in in Ballarat, and he decided to take over the cinema within a few months of it closing,” said Ellen Becker, heritage collection curator at the BMI. “He transformed it into the Vegas 70 and they had a big opening night where they screened Mary Poppins.

“It became an iconic Ballarat cinema.”

On Saturday 18 May, attendees can experience the cinema revived, with screenings of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and Saturday Night Fever.

Choc tops, popcorn and Jaffas will also be available.

Ms Becker said it is important to reflect on the history of cinema as it played an important role in people’s lives.

“Especially during the 1940s cinema was so important and in Ballarat half the population may be out in one night at all the different cinemas,” said Ms Becker.

“Before television came in it was such as social event, people have memories of going on their first date or hanging out with friends.

“They have such an important history in people’s lives, such important memories.”

To get tickets to the screenings visit the Vegas 70 website.