Podcast: Play in new window | Download
As the owner of Mount Lawley Pest Control, I’ve come to know every nook and cranny of this suburb. While my day-to-day is about managing unwelcome guests, there’s one local landmark that always fills me with a sense of pride: the Astor Theatre.
Standing at the corner of Beaufort and Walcott Streets, the Astor is more than just a building—it’s a piece of Mount Lawley’s history. Its stunning Art Deco facade, with its distinctive geometric lines and heritage-listed status, tells a story that dates back to the early 20th century. What began as the “Lyceum” in 1919 has since transformed, surviving changing tastes and even a threat of demolition to become the vibrant live entertainment hub we know today.
In my line of work, you learn to appreciate a well-maintained structure. The Astor, with its beautifully preserved interior, is a testament to the care and community effort that has gone into keeping it alive. The grand auditorium, with its sweeping stage and classic seating, is a world away from the modern, generic venues you see elsewhere. It feels special, like you’re stepping back in time to an era of glamorous live performances.
The beauty of the Astor is its incredible versatility. It’s not just a theatre; it’s a concert hall, a comedy club, and a performance space for every kind of artist. One night you might be seeing a legendary international musician, and the next, a hilarious stand-up comedian or a local theatre production. It truly is the cultural heart of Mount Lawley, bringing in a diverse range of talent and audiences from all over Perth.
The Astor Theatre is a reminder of what makes our community so special—a rich history, a love for the arts, and a passionate community dedicated to preserving and celebrating its unique character. It’s one of the reasons I’m proud to call Mount Lawley home.
If you live in or near Mount Lawley, and you want to live the bug-free live that you deserve, call Glenn on 0410 581 108. We also have a website with a whole lot of podcasts related to insect and rodent pests, located at mountlawleypestcontrol.com.au