Planet Perth: The Liberty Theatre
If you walk along Barrack Street between the Murray and Hay Street malls, you’re likely to stumble upon a series of old abandoned buildings, including the bygone Liberty Theatre.
First opening its doors in 1954, The Liberty Theatre was home to Perth’s first arthouse cinema, playing host to exclusive film society nights, before closing its doors in 1997.
Now, after sitting empty for almost 26 years, the area is set to be redeveloped, reigniting what was once a grassroots cultural hub.
In today’s episode Jeff Bullen chats with arts researcher and cinefile Barry Strickland to discuss how the Liberty Theatre redefined Perth’s cultural scene following World War Two and the unique arts and cultural scene in Perth.
Developer Randal Humich also stops by to talk us through how the theatre will be revived for the 21st Century.
Planet Perth is an RTRFM podcast series about the weird, wacky and unexplained history of our eccentric city.
Join Jeff Bullen each fortnight for a deep dive into the events, personalities and bygone icons that have shaped one of the most isolated cities in the world.
