The Vegas 70 was once the most popular cinema in Ballarat. The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute and Showbiz Cinemas have collaborated to bring back the Vegas for the Ballarat Heritage Festival.

The first moving pictures (called cinematograph) in Ballarat were shown at the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute in 1896!

In 1909 the first bioscope pictures were shown in the main hall (now the Minerva Space) at the BMI. Later, in 1917, the hall was leased to the Austral Photoplay Co. for showing silent pictures. Then in 1919, a syndicate, including Messrs J. Clemens, C. Gemmola and F.S. Jelbart opened the Britannia Picture Theatre in the same space.

The Britannia was later followed by the Odeon Cinema, and then Vegas 70 theatre in 1966. The Vegas was a staple in the Ballarat film scene for 15 years. The Vegas was closed in 1981, after which the Sturt Cinema opened in 1994.

We invite you to revisit the old Vegas Cinema for a night of 70s blockbusters!

7.00pm – Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory
1971 • G • 1h 40m

9.30pm – Saturday Night Fever
1977 • MA15+ • 1h 58m

Popcorn, snacks, and choctops will be available from the refreshment stand.

The bar will be open for Saturday Night Fever screening only – beer and wine will be available.