Before becoming annexes to shopping malls, theatres were once stand-alone complexes on major streets. However modernised and stylish the interior design is, mini theatres are incomparable to theatres that could accommodate thousands in yesteryears.

Top-class cinemas in those days had the finest decorations inside and out: artistically crafted fountains and stairways, hand-painted billboards and lobby cards turned foyers into exhibition halls. Lounge areas were even offered to the valued patrons of dress circle. The atmosphere is certainly different from nowadays with big LED screens looping previews and trailers, much fitted to the fast pace lifestyle of today’s society.

Lost was not only the spaciousness, but also the sense of elegance and ease.

Fountain and Stairway

Theatres used to be so majestically-designed that some even had fountains inside. Hoover Theatre in Causeway Bay had a classical fountain with sculptures next to the stairway, while Princess Theatre in Tsim Sha Tsui had a black marble fountain in the lobby, radiating unique aura under the lights.

Theatres of the past usually had two or three floors with grand staircases. Royal Cinema, for instance, had an arched stairway leading to the dress circle.

Sculpture

Most theatres in Hong Kong might not be as grandiose; but even so, sophistication was nonetheless shown through the decorations. Hoover Theatre had a zodiac relief near the ceiling of the lobby. London Theatre had the trendy aluminum decorations on the exterior walls. When Empire Theatre opened in 1952, its magnificent relief on the outside was a major attraction.

Couplet

Theatres used to show not only movies but also Cantonese operas, hence the eastern and western mixed décor. Hung on two sides of the stage of Tai Ping Theatre and Lee Theatre where Chinese couplets.

Snack Bar

Snacks and drinks are always enjoyed by movie-goers. Theatres in the old days were mostly located on major streets, thus attracting hawkers to set up their mobile food stalls near the entrance. Grilled squids, baked sweet potatoes, roasted chestnuts, fish balls, marinated foods, herbal tea etc. were all audience's favorite snacks. However as hawker control tightened, street food vendors were gradually replaced by in-house snack bars offering popcorns and soft drinks.