behind the scenes...

...and if book club buddy R hadn't said to me "When you are in Brisbane have you been to The Regent Theatre?' I would be none the wiser.
Well 'No' said I but in fact I have on various occasions to pick up tourist info for not only the city but across the state of Queensland because it is the home to Tourist Information in the Queen Street Mall.
'Did you go  back into the area where they book tours accommodation?' said R.
Well 'No'.
'Well DO" she insisted and here is what is out the back!

The Regent Theatre : 'was constructed as the first and only American-style picture palace to be built in Queensland...the picture palaces were built to imitate Hollywood's Golden Era. Built in 1929 it cost a whopping 300,000 pounds.
Described as "palatial", "rich in detail" and "strikingly beautiful". Seating more than 2500 patrons it was one of the largest theatres in Australia and comprised an extensive stage with fly tower and a large movie screen and stage, modern lighting facilities, three talking machines, and a £25,000 Wurlitzer organ from New York. A large dome stretching above the stalls featured a one-ton bronze chandelier in the centre of an oval ceiling medallion set within a "sunburst" surround.
Blimey...that makes Gold Lounge look very insignificant!

It has had various incarnations with threats of demolition but now this grandeur is tucked away safely and heritage listed and it is a beauty to behold.
With comfy seats like this a wonderful spot to while away some time holiday planning or lolling with a coffee and a book....bring on the Wurlitzer!