About

Constructed in 1938 for local film entrepreneur James Stiles, the Cygnet Cinema (originally named Como Theatre) very quickly became a landmark south-of-the-river entertainment venue. .The building was designed by architect William Leighton in the Functionalist style that was popular during the period between the two World Wars. This was a time when Como was considered a very desirable suburb thanks to its riverside location and the abundance of local recreational and entertainment opportunities.

The Cygnet Cinema was classified by the National Trust (WA) in 1988 and entered into the Register of the National Estate by the Australian Heritage Commission a decade later. In 1995, the building was also included on the City of South Perth’s Municipal Inventory and permanently listed on the State Register of Heritage Places.

Today, 80 years later, the Stiles family and their company Grand Cinemas still own and operate the cinema and it remains a significant drawcard for visitors to the Preston St Precinct. Within the scope of the Preston Street Revival program, there is the potential for the Cygnet Cinema to undergo refurbishment. This opportunity will be determined based on the outcome of the Preston Street Revival community consultation process.

Location