Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace is a charming blast from the past. A theatre that was built in 1935, it’s Art Deco exterior has been refurbished as recently as 1987 by its current owner, Mike Walsh, a familiar name in the world of television.

Hayden Orpheum has six theatres all of them done up in an ornate style, each of which is done in a completely unique way. The entire experience of watching a movie in any of the six theatres is quaint. The cinema hall has a retro feel to it with its 70 mm screen, the velvet curtains that actually get drawn up before the movie starts, and the Wurlitzer organ which plays at special events. They organize special screenings and events where very young children can be taken. They even provide the long forgotten facility of crying rooms where parents can take very young children so that other patrons can continue to watch the movie undisturbed.

The old world charm goes side by side with the latest technology. The movie hall may look like something from the past but it is fully equipped with modern cinematic technology. The films at new, images sharp and the movie hall offers digital surround sound.

The theatre has a distinct retro ambience, but does not compromise on quality and comfort. It has digital surround sound and other technological advances. In today’s world where the number of movie goers is steadily dwindling, Cremorne’s Orpheum has, with its six separate screens, its opulently decorated upstairs lounge bar succeeded in retaining its loyal patrons. Moreover, a smart selection of thrillers, blockbusters, classic and alternative films ensures that it does not have to screen its movies to an empty hall.

Going to the cinema is a great way to spend a few hours if the destination is Hayden Orpheum. It is plush, beautiful and glamorous. It is a place a person can go with family and even very young children. It is spacious and the little ones can run around while you watch the movie. They offer a wonderful scheme called “Wednesday Movie Lunches’ where for a mere $13 you can watch a movie and have a light lunch and finish with a cup of coffee. It is a perfect movie outing that stay at home mothers can enjoy with their children, or a group of friends can enjoy in the middle of the week. Oh yes, this is a special event they advertise on their website.

A visit to this theatre takes you to the past with 70 mm screens, terrazzo floors, art deco exteriors, glass fittings, the velvet curtains, comfortable seats, fresh flowers and for special events, pipe music that plays in the intervals. If you are in Sydney, you must visit this movie hall for a nostalgic trip to the past.