New operators of Lorne Theatre revealed

THE Lorne Theatre will reopen next month with an experienced operator in charge and a stacked calendar of films.

Brothers Barrie, Bob, and Chris Barton – co-founders of Sydney’s Golden Age Cinema & Bar and Melbourne’s Rooftop Cinema – announced this week that they have taken over the Lorne Theatre, and plan to reopen it for screenings as soon as possible over the summer months.

From December 1, the theatre in Mountjoy Parade will host a line-up featuring a blend of contemporary and classic films, complemented by special film series and live performances.

Running through until Easter, the summer series will present a mix of new releases and timeless classics run alongside programming run at the Rooftop Cinema and Golden Age Cinema & Bar, including the Christmas Cracker film collection and Surfside, a limited film series presented by surf, skate and culture magazine Monster Children.

The Barton brothers grew up in Geelong and have spent holidays on the Surf Coast since childhood, and said them taking on the Lorne Theatre was as much an emotional investment as a business one.

“We’re deeply aware of the space this building holds in the hearts of generations of local and visiting movie lovers,” Chris Barton said.

“Our love of the Surf Coast and of cinema is why we jumped at this opportunity.

“It’s a huge legacy to take on, but it’s one that we’re very excited to uphold and build upon.”

After the summer series of films, there will be a full renovation and restoration of the theatre in conjunction with Heritage Victoria during winter 2024, with the aim to reopen in late 2024.

The 550-seat Art Deco building has been in operation as the Lorne Theatre for more than 80 years.

“Our plans for the building are not to reinvent the wheel, but to add some love and polish and restore the Lorne Theatre to its original splendour.” Bob Barton said.

“We want to accentuate that same charm and sense of grandeur that has captivated visitors for more than 80 years and help ensure the theatre’s future as a truly special cultural experience for 100 more.”

Golden Age director of programming Kate Jinx will provide curatorial and exhibition guidance to Lorne Theatre’s now cinema manager, Jessa Shields, whose previous roles include stints at Palace Cinema Como and Lido Cinemas.

“After 10 years in its historic Surry Hills home and across numerous pop–up locations, it’s a thrill to see Golden Age continue to grow,” Ms Jinx said.

“The vision has always been to provide an inclusive social experience that both recalls the classic cinema–going of yore but celebrates new voices too, and I’m excited for Jessa Shields to nurture that ethos in beautiful Lorne.”

Tickets for Lorne Theatre’s summer program were scheduled to go on sale today (Friday, November 3).

For more information, head to lornetheatre.ourgoldenage.com.au