Dungog James Theatre

The James Theatre is the oldest purpose-built cinema still operating in Australia. It is the centre of so much cultural activity in the region, showing a wide range of films and holding festivals, concerts and performances throughout the year. Once the social hub of Dungog, it has been the site of film screenings, balls, dances, concerts and special events for more than a hundred years. Built and run as a family operation originally, the Theatre fell on hard times and into disrepair until the Dungog Shire Council purchased it in 1979 to provide a large function centre for the community. Cinema screenings were continued from the 1980s until 2007 by a dedicated Ken Reeve. Since 2011, the Friends of the James Theatre has worked to keep the Theatre operational for films, live performances and functions. The Theatre has been repainted in colours appropriate to its Spanish Mission Style, and the original colours of the Theatre, a digital projector, new screen, air-conditioning, lights, wifi and a range of less visible but important maintenance have kept the Theatre up with the times and is now showing two or three films each month. The James Theatre is available for hire for film, music or dramatic events as well as weddings, parties, dances, educational uses and meetings. Check the website for upcoming events.