Astor Theatre Renovations & FOTAA Visit May-September

FOTAA -Tour of Recent Renovation Work Recently, the FOTAA Secretary Met with Astor Cinema GM Zak Hepburn, and Ralamar’s Dale Smith. FOTAA had an opportunity to see in detail the recent renovations undertaken by Ralamar, and Palace Cinemas. Much repair work has happened behind the scenes to renovate the Grande Dame of Melbourne Cinema. This work undertaken, may not be known to our members, and others who visit the cinema on a casual basis Below is a short summary of the work to date. Astor Theatre’s GM Zak Hepburn & Tom Bleby, with FOTAA Sec. David Kube on 12 th Sept

1. Front of Cinema on Chapel Street - Tiles. Due to long term water damage to the mortar, there had been several incidents with tiles falling near pedestrians on Chapel St. The old green tiles were replaced with the new black glazed replica tiles to properly seal the wall. 3

2. Repaired & Repainted Front Doors Original aims were to strip back the door to natural wood, unfortunately the current door frames were too extensively patched to permit this. Instead, extensive repair of door frames was undertaken, with a new Indian Red paint as a top coat. 4

3. Repair to Theatre Rooves There are lots of rooves at the Astor. and they cover a large area. Complete replacement of all the many Astor Theatre Rooves including rotten wooden framework, together with replacement of guttering, and downpipes. These repairs now ensure that the building is once again weather proof, and free from further water damage or flooding. 5

3. Repair to Theatre Rooves Cont’ Significant roof repairs included replacement of all Corrugated Iron, and upgrade access to roof space for maintenance. 6

4. Interior & Backstage Areas Other work undertaken included careful clean-up &repair of fire exit areas for safety. Below are some examples of water damage backstage. 7

6. Interior Wall Plaster Damage & Repair Extensive water damage had occurred along the South Wall of the theatre, affecting the plasterwork forms, ceiling, cornices, and walls. 8

Using extensive scaffolding, repairs were made to the South wall on the roof, and to the ceiling and wall plaster. 9

10 Soundproof foam was also installed after the wall repairs to ensure a better audio environment for the Astor patrons. The Auditorium seating was thoroughly cleaned, & approx. 20% of seating that was worn or broken, was repaired prior to re- opening.

Thanks to Zak, and Dale for their time in showing FOTAA the Astor Theatre renovations! 11 The FOTAA Committee, look forward to catching up with the FOTAA Members at our next event. RALAMAR Nominees Pty Ltd