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Coliseum Cinema
 Chua
Cheng Bok, a well-known Chinese businessman and property developer, built this
structure and leased it to a group of gentlemen who opened this cinema in 1921.
Constructed of reinforced concrete, with a double roof and numerous fans, the
building was one of the coolest places in town. The wide verandahs upstairs,
the balcony seats and private boxes were tastefully fitted with separate fans
and lights, to cater to the patrons' comfort. The Coliseum had its own power
plant, making it independent of the town system.
This Neo-classical building with its stuccoed façade addresses the corner beautifully.
Note the verandahs which have since been enclosed.
In the 1930s, one could watch bangsawan (Malay opera) performed by itinerant
troupes. Since the 1940s, the cinema has catered to moviegoers interested in
Malay and Hindi films. These movies were advertised through colourful hand-painted
billboards. As late as 1992, painting canvas banners by hand was still a widespread
practice and a skill that was passed on from one generation to the next. The
artistry of the whole process is now computerized.
Click the map below to view a larger version
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Digital Art & Culture Festival 2011,
15 to 17 July 2011 in Suffolk House, Penang
"Warisan Kertas 2011" Exhibition Extended to 30 September 2011
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