Brief history
The building opened in December, 1939 and originally seated 695 on two levels. The building itself is fairly high but long and narrow, and was build in the Expressionist, almost Modern Movement style. Architects were Crick and Furse, the noted theatre architectural firm responsible for many cinemas in New South Wales. The decor of the interior of the Liberty, although Art Moderne, was unusual in that it depicted stylised musical notes as decorative wall features. CinemaScope was installed in 1956. The Liberty served Yass until closure around 1970/71. The foyer was converted into retail premises, and offices built within the shell of the auditorium.
Details of remaining cinematic features
The facade of the Liberty above awning level, with its dynamic horizontal and vertical Expressionist modern features and tower, is intact. The dress circle remains, as does the projection room and lounge foyer, and all are intact but used only for storage. The ceiling and wall treatments in this area are also intact. What was the front stalls of the theatre has been converted into a small live theatre with around 60 seats, with a new stage extended from the original screen area. A new false proscenium has been constructed in front of the original. The vestibule has been altered beyond recognition and the back stalls area has been converted to offices with access from the side street.
Statement of significance
Heritage significance
An outstanding Art Deco building, with many of its original features intact but not accessible, and with part of the building converted to use as a small live theatre, makes the Liberty unique.
Social value
Important as a social, cultural and entertainment facility for the residents of Yass and district for over 30 years; this importance has been renewed in the Liberty’s new role as a small live theatre, some 24 years after the cinema closed.
Aesthetic value
The facade of this building is almost Mendelsohnian in its feel for German Expressionist style. It is quite an outstanding example of the style, and the corner site on the main highway makes the theatre a landmark. The building’s style contrasts to that of many older heritage buildings of Yass. The principal elements are the deep horizontal awnings or hoods, some sheltering windows, abutting a tower that projects from the main facade. The dress circle foyer and upper portion of the auditorium is in the curvaceous Art Moderne style with coves for considerable indirect lighting.
Ross Thorne, Les Tod and Kevin Cork ‘Cultural Heritage of Movie Theatres in New South Wales, 1896 - 1996’ Department of Architecture, University of Sydney (Ed. 2, 1997)(p. 332)
“a city without old buildings is like a man without a memory.”
We rely on the generosity of volunteer and donors who make a huge difference, and you can too.