One of Singapore’s most storied architectural treasures, the Capitol Theatre, is pivoting back to its cinematic roots with a dedicated program focused on screening silver screen classics. After years of functioning primarily as an adaptable venue for concerts, corporate conventions, and extravagant social events, the nearly century-old landmark on Stamford Road is relaunching regular film screenings, aiming to reclaim its identity as a premier movie palace. Beginning February 22 and running through April 28, the inaugural “Classics At Capitol” series offers audiences a rare opportunity to view meticulously restored versions of cinematic masterpieces in a majestic 4K format.
A New Chapter for Singapore’s Last Pre-War Cinema
The Capitol Theatre, often heralded as Singapore’s last surviving pre-war picture house, holds significant cultural weight. Since its original opening in 1930, the venue has hosted legendary figures, from Hollywood stars like Charlie Chaplin and Ava Gardner to generations of local moviegoers. After closing in 1998 for extensive redevelopment of the entire Capitol complex, it reopened in 2015 as a flexible, multi-purpose events space, notably hosting high-profile events such as the red-carpet premiere of Crazy Rich Asians and segments of the Singapore International Film Festival.
The return to regular cinematic programming marks an ambitious new phase. The “Classics at Capitol” schedule is curated by local film writer and researcher Ben Slater, demonstrating a commitment to quality and historical importance beyond simple nostalgia.
The initial lineup features three seminal titles:
- The Launching Feature: The iconic musical comedy, Singin’ In The Rain.
- A Desert Epic: David Lean’s sweeping adventure, Lawrence Of Arabia.
- The Taut Thriller: Alfred Hitchcock’s high-stakes espionage film, North By Northwest.
Organizers view this series not merely as a limited run but as the foundation for establishing the Capitol Theatre as a permanent, year-round home for classic film appreciation in Singapore. The goal is to provide a consistent platform for experiencing cinema history in an environment befitting its grandeur.
Exploring Singapore’s Lost Screening History
To anchor the programming in local heritage and contextualize the Capitol’s significance, the launch day on February 22 will also feature a book release event. Local researchers Wong Han Min and Yeo Min Hui will present their new publication, Singapore Screening Spaces (1896 to 1945): Lost Screens And My Last Kacang Puteh. This book delves into the early history of cinema exhibition in the region, adding intellectual depth to the film series.
The dedication to screening restored 4K prints ensures that viewers will experience these films with clarity and vibrancy often unavailable in private viewing settings. For cinephiles, the series provides a crucial alternative to modern multiplexes, merging the luxurious architecture of a bygone era with cutting-edge visual technology.
The full schedule details and ticket purchases are available on the official Capitol Theatre website. This initiative not only honors the venue’s rich past but also strengthens Singapore’s cultural offerings, ensuring that the legacy of classic cinema remains accessible on the big screen.
Suggested Further Reading:
- Anthony Chen’s ‘We Are All Strangers’ is the first Singaporean film to compete for Berlin’s Golden Bear Award
- DJ Kygo’s sun-soaked electronic music festival is coming to Singapore this April