For The Term of his Natural Life

Watch the newly restored For The Term Of His Natural Life (1927), a landmark film by Norman Dawn — Australia's most expensive silent production and a cinematic masterpiece.

Experience the magic of yesteryear at The Capitol with a dazzling afternoon that celebrates the golden age of Australian silent cinema. 

Dive into the newly restored classic, For The Term Of His Natural Life (1927). Directed by the renowned Norman Dawn and featuring stars Eva Novak and George Fisher, this masterpiece was the most expensive Australian silent film of its time and remains a pinnacle of cinematic history.

Before the main feature, delight in a live performance by the Capitol Orchestra, enriching the visual spectacle with a sumptuous auditory experience. Additionally, enjoy a handpicked collection of enchanting short silent films from the 1920s, showcasing the innovative artistry of early filmmakers.

Seize this unique opportunity to journey back in time and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Australian silent cinema!

Share

Upcoming events

alice-ref-1220x732.jpg

Alice in Wonderland

Icon / Small / Calendar Created with Sketch. 02 Jan 2026 - 18 Jan 2026
Icon / Small / Location Created with Sketch. The Capitol

Join Alice on her amazing journey through Wonderland and experience an adventure like no other.

lucas-ref-1220x732.jpg

Lucas: Why I Hate Human?

Icon / Small / Calendar Created with Sketch. 16 Jan 2026
Icon / Small / Location Created with Sketch. The Capitol

Malaysian Chinese comedian Lucas presents a fearless 70‑minute special dissecting modern life: politics, privacy, war, relationships and our hidden biases, with sharp wit and tender humanity. Expect provocative insights, big laughs and audience reflection. Strict late‑entry, no recording, and content confidentiality apply.

ballet-button-capitols-ref-1220x732.jpg

Ballet of Lights: Cinderella in a Sparkling Show

Icon / Small / Calendar Created with Sketch. 23 Jan 2026 - 16 May 2026
Icon / Small / Location Created with Sketch. The Capitol

After captivating audiences worldwide with Peter Pan, Ballet of Lights presents Cinderella! This classic fairy tale is reimagined in a ballet show where dancers shine in glow-in-the-dark costumes. Get your tickets for Ballet of Lights: Cinderella in a Sparkling Show in Melbourne!

aboriginal flag float-start torres strait flag float-start

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.

Learn more about our commitment to Indigenous cultures