Phoenix Cinema Restoration

Cinema manager Cassie tests paint in the under-work foyer. The foyer will have a new colour scheme upon reopening.

Intricate birdcage scaffolding criss-crosses the auditorium. This allows workers to restore the classic barrel vaulted ceiling.

The removed levers of the vintage lighting panel lie on the floor after being removed. A new electronic lighting system is being installed. These artefacts are being given to The Cinema Museum.

Two workmen create a cavity in the read side of the cinema. It will contain the first new exterior doorway since the 1930s.

The last two Mollo & Egan panels are cleaned before being attached to the rear wall. They've lain unseen since the auditorium was shortened.

This contraption is the motor that opens and closes the curtains. A similar machine moves the matting to accommodate differing film aspect ratios.

A large truck lifts steel rods into the building. The steels are intended for supporting the changes being made to the structure, including the new balcony.

A worker in a cherry picker approaches the top of the building in order to refinish the cement.

Site electrician Jimmy tapes up a cable that is attached to the distribution board. The board will control the power for the new cafe bar, among other things.