An Open Day at the Capri

Built in 1941, the heritage-listed Capri theatre and its 100 year-old WurliTzer theatre organ are two of Adelaide’s treasures. If you’ve ever wanted to see behind the scenes, find out how the organ works or even have a try, this FREE EVENT is your big chance.

• Backstage and heritage tours
• Organ demonstrations
• Trading table
• SALA photo exhibition

In the era of silent movies, music to dramatize the story was provided by a small orchestra. But as theatre operators sought to cut costs, orchestras were replaced by a ‘Unit Orchestra’ – a pipe organ able to produce all the music and sound effects the audience expected but played by a single person. These are the wonderful and complex machines now referred to as theatre organs.

During 1974 a WurliTzer theatre organ, then located in Darwin, was purchased by the South Australian division of TOSA. It was dismantled and packed for transport only weeks before cyclone Tracy flattened that city. Once in Adelaide the components were placed in storage until a suitable home for it could be located. This was found in 1978 when, using money loaned or donated by TOSA members, the Capri Theatre at Goodwood was purchased. The theatre re-opened as a movie venue in December of that year showing ‘Gone with the Wind’.

Installation of the WurliTzer required extensive building modifications, not to mention organ pipes, air blowers and miles of wiring, work largely completed by volunteer TOSA members. It was first played in April 1983 as part of a national TOSA convention.

The work of proud TOSA(SA) members and volunteers continues to be vital to the operation and maintenance of the theatre, building and organ installation.

Our Candy Bar will be open for you to purchase our famous Capri Choc Top, Haighs Chocolates, Tea, Coffee or a Glass of wine!