The Randwick Ritz has been a local establishment since the '30s and the period Art Deco design is something that really catches the eye, which indeed was the point! The building was designed, by architect Aaron Bolot, to be an advertisement in itself, to stand out from other buildings on the street.
It’s not such a widely known fact that cinemas were the first buildings in Australia to have air conditioning installed. The ventilation was designed to be controlled from the inside, so The Ritz does not have many windows. Interestingly the Ritz was fitted with carpet, interesting because at the time carpet was very expensive and not widely used so this choice was made to impart a feeling of luxury on patrons. Since then, the Ritz has moved away from its old-world luxury roots, but now one of the great things about visiting the cinema is the experience of being transported back to the 1930s; coming here is not just about the movie as the building holds a charm all to itself.
In 1962, The Ritz Theatre was bought from Hoyts by the Sisters of the Brigidine Congregation. During the 23 years of their ownership, it continued as a cinema, despite threats of demolition in 1984. These threats led to the community getting behind their much-loved cinema and a campaign begun to save the building. Needless to say the campaign was heightened when Mel Gibson gave his support. Finally, in 1993 a permanent conservation order was implemented.
Renovations, in keeping with the Art Deco design, have been a constant occurrence through the cinema’s life, with the external building currently undergoing renovations. Not everything about the Ritz is Art Deco however; in 1992 Dolby Sound systems were installed in the six cinemas, including one 833-seat cinema featuring Dolby Digital EX and a flat screen catering over two levels.
The Ritz is perfect for a mid-week movie, with prices the same as they were in the 1930s (well almost) and, being located in The Spot, the many surrounding cafés and restaurants mean you won’t be starved for choice. Of course, you could also choose to have a bite and drink at the Bar Ritz before and after your movie.
The Ritz receives great reviews from loyal patrons: "This is my favourite cinema so far in Sydney... it's quaint and old fashioned" and I have to say that I count myself among that prestigious list.
Photos by Catherine Alcorn
