Rivoli Cinemas

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Rivoli Cinemas is a large cinema complex in Hawthorn East, Australia. It is a notable cinema for the international and art house films it plays as well as Hollywood Blockbusters.

The Rivoli Cinema Complex is a much admired example of moderne architecture in Melbourne. Popularly known as Art Deco, the stylistic influences of the Rivoli are more precisely described as a combination of Jazz Moderne and Streamlined Moderne.

Designed by noted cinema architects Taylor and Soilleux, the cinema was built on the current site in 1940 as a two level cinema. The capacity of the cinema was 1644 (Stalls 1004; Circle 640). Taylor and Soilleux were noted acoustic specialists during this era and worked as consultants on the construction of many cinemas throughout Australia. Over the years, the Rivoli has undergone many major renovations, the most significant being in 1968 when the cinema was divided to form the Rivoli Twin (the balcony became Cinema One and the stalls became Cinema Two), and the current refurbishment. The new Rivoli now has a total seating capacity of 1550 for the eight screens.

Due to its historical significance, The Rivoli Cinemas have been placed on the National Trust's Register. This Register lists places which are important parts of Australia's heritage and therefore require special care. The current refurbishment has been achieved with the consultancy of Heritage Victoria and Society Art Deco to ensure the cinema is restored to its former glory. [1]