If you are exploring the rich history of Perth, Western Australia, you will want to discover the legacy of the Capitol Theatre. Designed by George Temple-Poole and located at 10 William Street, this iconic venue officially opened on May 4, 1929. On its grand opening night, visitors enjoyed a screening of Freckles along with live performances by the Capitol Theatre orchestra, Leah Miller's Beauty Ballet, and Syd Roy's Lyricals.
Throughout the 1930s, it served as a popular cinema destination before hosting formal civic and state functions in the 1940s and 1950s. Over the years, legendary artists took the stage, including UK skiffle star Lonnie Donegan in 1960 and Bob Dylan during his first Perth visit in 1966. Though demolished after a 1968 sale to make way for an office building, its memory endures through remarkable surviving pieces.
While at the original site, you can reflect on its past grandeur, which once featured Art Nouveau stencil work, a massive illuminated sign, and a famous Rudolph Valentino bust. Today, you can view that very bust at the Western Australian Performing Arts Museum in His Majesty's Theatre, or see its magnificent 300-light chandelier now hanging in Melbourne's Princess Theatre.
What to see at Capitol Theatre, Perth
- Designed by George Temple-Poole at 10 William Street
- Opened in 1929 with cinema screenings, ballet, and orchestra shows
- Hosted iconic acts like Lonnie Donegan and Bob Dylan
- Featured Art Nouveau stenciling and a 300-light chandelier
- Historic Rudolph Valentino bust now housed at His Majesty's Theatre
Visiting tips
To view preserved pieces of the theatre's heritage, visit His Majesty's Theatre to see the Rudolph Valentino bust or Melbourne's Princess Theatre to see the original chandelier.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Capitol Theatre, Perth is easy to reach on Perth’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Art Gallery of Western Australia and Western Australian Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Perth travel guide.
See the full Perth travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.