The redevelopment of Preston Street in Como, Perth, aims to breathe new life into the area by transforming the historic Como Theatre into a thriving arts and performance space. The theatre, which originally opened in 1938, fell into disuse over the years due to the rise of television and the Kwinana Freeway diverting traffic away from the area. The new development, spearheaded by APC’s Brett Jackson, seeks to create a vibrant arts hub that will attract a diverse range of visitors to the area, enhancing its appeal and revitalizing the local community.
Satria Leech, a longtime enthusiast of celluloid film, has joined forces with Robbie Denman to create The Revival House at the Como Theatre. This unique cinema experience offers screenings of 35-millimeter prints, appealing to a younger audience that is rediscovering the magic of analog technology. By showcasing a mix of family favorites and classic films, The Revival House is not only preserving the art of celluloid but also introducing a new generation to the beauty of traditional film projection. The response from audiences has been overwhelmingly positive, with moviegoers coming from across the metro area to experience the nostalgia of watching films in their original format.
The Theatre 180, a theatre company known for their innovative cine-plays, has forged a special connection to Como through their performances at the Cygnet. Their production of Albert Facey’s A Fortunate Life was met with great enthusiasm from local audiences, many of whom have deep ties to the farming families that once populated the area. Artistic director Stuart Halusz highlights the strong resonance that West Australian stories have with the community, making the Preston Street Arts Collective at The Como Theatre an ideal location for their work. The anticipation surrounding the redevelopment of the theatre into a full-fledged arts center has generated excitement among locals, who see it as a beacon of cultural revival in the neighborhood.
The history of Preston Street as a bustling hub for entertainment and leisure is being revived through the transformation of the Como Theatre. Once a vibrant destination for working-class residents, the area lost its appeal over the years due to changing cultural trends and developments in transportation. However, with the introduction of a dynamic arts center, the precinct is set to regain its former glory as a gathering place for diverse activities and experiences. By combining a mix of medical services and arts programming, the redevelopment project aims to create a vibrant and attractive destination for visitors throughout the day and night.
The collaboration between Satria Leech, Robbie Denman, and other creatives at The Revival House represents a commitment to preserving and promoting the art of celluloid film. Their efforts to rescue deteriorating prints and showcase them in their original form have struck a chord with audiences looking for a unique and authentic cinematic experience. The success of The Revival House underscores the enduring appeal of traditional film projection in an age dominated by digital technology. As the theater undergoes further renovations under the Preston Street Arts Collective banner, plans to expand programming to include live music performances are on the horizon, promising even more engaging experiences for visitors.
The redevelopment of the Como Theatre and the emergence of cultural initiatives like The Revival House reflect a broader trend towards a renaissance of the arts in the Como and South Perth area. By tapping into the rich history and community spirit of the region, these projects are poised to inject new energy and creativity into the local cultural scene. With a focus on storytelling, heritage preservation, and audience engagement, the Preston Street Arts Collective is paving the way for a vibrant and inclusive arts community that celebrates the past while looking towards the future. As the theater transforms into a modern arts center, it is set to become a focal point for creativity, entertainment, and community connection in the heart of Como.
