Capitol Theatre Orchestra followed by Picture Show Man (1977), (G)

Join us for a wonderful afternoon of Authentic 1920's Jazz followed by a screening of the classic Australian film "The Picture Show Man" (G), (1977), John Meillon, Rod Taylor and Gary McDonald.

The Capitol Theatre Orchestra has been re-established as the resident jazz orchestra at Melbourne's famous art deco Capitol Theatre to help celebrate the centenary of its opening in 1924. 

This was a time when all the best theatres, hotels and dance halls had fine resident jazz orchestras and the Capitol Theatre was no exception. The original Capitol Theatre Orchestra, established in 1924, soon became a regular feature of Melbourne's cinema experience in the 1920s. 

The re-established Capitol Theatre Orchestra captures the glamour and delight of the golden age of the jazz era, one hundred years ago.

Plus!

You haven't been to the movies until you've seen..... "The Picture Show Man", a warm and witty comedy set in the 20s, an era when the musicians accompanying the films along with the pre show entertainment were just as important as the movie itself.

The Picture Show Man chronicles the adventures of Maurice Pym (John Meillon), a flamboyant showman traveling the Aussie outback unreeling silent films. Braving much hardship and heartbreak along the way, Pym soon clashes with rival showman Palmer - a loud-mouthed, super-cool, ever-smiling American (Rod Taylor).

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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