Pentridge Cinema: A Historic Transformation for Movie-Lovers
The historic HM Prison Pentridge is set to become the latest home for movie-lovers in Melbourne, as it will reopen as a cinema in December, just in time for Christmas. This iconic site has a rich legacy, having been established in 1851 in the northern Melbourne suburb of Coburg, serving as the main remand and reception prison until its official closure in 1997. A number of its heritage buildings are protected in the Victorian Heritage Register, ensuring that the legacy continues through a new community precinct.
The Pentridge restoration project showcases contemporary architecture and engaging public spaces, featuring a 6500-square-meter piazza. This initiative emphasizes adaptive reuse architecture while also honoring the significant heritage aspects of the former prison.
The 15-screen Pentridge Cinema, presented by Palace Cinemas, is designed to accommodate up to 1100 guests across its auditoriums. It boasts fully-reclining seats and Dolby Atmos surround sound, catering to a wide audience with a full slate of new release films. Upcoming titles include popular movies like Death On The Nile, Coming 2 America, Free Guy, and Wonder Woman 1984, alongside family-friendly favorites such as Peter Rabbit 2, Connected, and Soul.
Upon its opening in December, Pentridge Cinema will implement comprehensive safety procedures to ensure the health and well-being of all attendees amidst the ongoing concerns over COVID-19. These measures will include checkerboard seating allocation, allowing friends and family to sit together in groups while maintaining physical distancing from other cinema-goers. Moreover, the cinema will stagger session times to minimize congestion in key areas, provide hand sanitiser stations at entrances and sales points, and facilitate contactless payment options.
“Cinema is a window to see the magic of the world, a safe place where communities meet for shared powerful experiences that move them to laughter, thrills, and tears,” says Benjamin Zeccola, CEO of Palace Cinemas. “More Australians go to the movies than any other venue or event, reminding us how vital cinema is to our way of life, and we can’t wait to open the newest edition to the Palace Cinemas family – Pentridge Cinemas.” For further information, please visit the Pentridge Cinema website here.
