The iconic Tower Cinemas reopens this Friday
When Tower Cinemas lowered its curtains for the last time in 2018, it left a void in Newcastle’s inner city that many believed might never be restored.
First opening its doors in April 1976, Tower Cinemas stood proud in the changing landscape of the city for over 40 years. It gave us film festivals from around the globe, foreign films, top Hollywood blockbusters, and all kinds of special events like concerts, ballets, and operas.
After seven years of quiet, and many rumours as to what would happen to the site, we can now say with great relief that Friday, November 21 marks the return of one of the city's most treasured destinations - Tower Cinemas - welcoming movie lovers back through its doors for the first time in seven years.
It's been a momentous undertaking to complete the renovation, and it's all thanks to Queensland-based Five Star Cinemas, who purchased the iconic movie theatre and, with that, took on the almighty 18-month renovation process.
Five Star Cinemas is a family picture theatre company run by brothers Stephen and Peter Sourris. The brothers have refurbished derelict movie theatres in Brisbane and run six cinemas in the Sunshine State, so when news first broke of this, we knew Tower Cinemas was going to be in safe hands.
The work required to reopen the doors has been substantial. On handover, the cinema was in, as Peter explains, "a disastrous state," with much of the interior needing to be removed and replaced, but true to Stephen and Peter's word, the cinema has stayed to its original theme.
Entering the foyer, it's just as we remember it from our last visit, only so much better.
The foyer’s carpet was able to be salvaged and, with some intensive cleaning, looks better than ever, as do the replica vintage light installations.
Stepping into each of the three cinema rooms, you’re instantly reminded of the iconic brickwork, still perfectly intact, and those dazzling floor-to-ceiling velvet drapes.
Photo credit: Joshua Bryne @elpadrecool_
The retro carpet, while not original, has been custom-made to replicate the exact 1970s print – an ongoing reminder of Stephen and Peter’s commitment to restoring the soul of Tower Cinemas.
If you're wondering what the seating situation is like, you will be relieved to hear the creaking rows of black chairs have all been replaced with luxurious reclining chairs.
The now fully licensed venue allows you to not just come and go, but linger and soak up this very special place. The second floor has a dedicated social area overlooking King St, perfect for pre- or post-theatre chats. Come November 21, the air will of course be filled with the smell of popcorn, and naturally the candy bar will be serving all your favourite sweets. You can also grab a coffee with beans supplied by Newcastle's very own Sprocket Roasters.
The opening of Tower Cinemas isn't just a win for movie lovers; it marks a significant turning point in the revitalising of Newcastle's CBD, with many local traders anticipating the reopening of the cinemas will encourage a swell of visitation to the CBD.
Novocastrians from far and wide hold special memories at Newcastle’s only city centre theatre, whether it was a first date, a school movie day out, or a family evening eating your weight in popcorn, and we can't wait to settle into those comfy recliners, popcorn in hand, and enjoy the magic of Tower Cinemas all over again.
