With “heavy hearts” the Kennett family will step away from Murray Bridge Cinema
There’s a blockbuster piece of real-estate up for grabs in Murray Bridge, which locals are hoping will get snapped up by a choc-top-loving movie buff.
The listing of Murray Bridge’s Cameo Cinema is the end of an era for the Kennett family, who’ve been serving up popcorn and the latest flicks to the region since the 1970’s.
Legend has it, the original foundations of the Cinema were laid by local bricky, and star of the screen, Aussie adventurer and filmmaker, Alby Mangels. Interior fittings and projection plant was sourced second-hand from other picture theatres, and hours of work went into setting up the auditorium, re-upholstering seats, installing cooling and heating and lighting equipment.
The curtains opened on January 15, 1977 to screenings of physiological thriller, ‘Obsession”, and superstar Barbara Streisand’s comedy film, ‘For Pete’s Sake’. Fittingly, among the final blockbusters before the Kennett’s close the curtains, is the fifth instalment in the Aussie made Mad Max franchise, ‘Furiosa, a Mad Max Saga’. Other movies playing out until the July 24th closure are The Garfield Movie, Bad Boys: Ride or Die, Despicable Me 4, Inside Out 2, A Quiet Place: Day One, The Bikeriders, Fly to the Moon, Twister and Deadpool and Wolverine.
The Kennett family said the decision to step away from the big screen was made with a heavy heart.
“We would like to thank our community for their support over the last 47 years and encourage you to again enjoy the experience of seeing the movies on the big screen before we close,” they said.
The property is being offered privately, with or without plant and furnishings – which means it’s future lies in the hands of the next owner.
Reflecting on 47 years in business, Val said it had been special to see may young locals who frequented the movies as kids, bringing their own families back to enjoy the experience. “The excitement the little ones have coming to the big screen for the first time is always a special moment to see.”
With Cinema screening times peaking during school holidays, public holidays, Christmas, Easter and weekends, the Kennett’s are looking forward to some special holiday time with their family, perhaps even taking the own grandchildren out for a day at the movies.
For more information on the sale of Cameo Cinema Murray Bridge, email [email protected]
