Memories Crashing Down

It’s the end of an era. If all goes to plan, the place that I created so many memories will come crashing down early next year.

The Perth Entertainment Centre, originally named the Channel 7 Edgley Entertainment Centre, is about to be knocked down. When it was built it was like nothing Perth had ever seen. It was Perth’s primary large concert venue, with seating for over 8000 people, from 1974 until it closed its doors in 2002.

Demolition work will begin on the Perth Entertainment Centre next month after a land swap deal between the building’s owner, Seven Group, and the State Government.

The Entertainment Centre, disused and a growing eyesore since it was closed in August 2002, will be demolished to make way for a new mixed use development likely to include office space and apartments.

Seven Group chief executive Peter Gammell said the company was yet to finalise its plans but at this stage there was no intention to move Channel 7 Perth’s operations from their studios in Dianella. – thewest.com.au

Some of the concerts I remember seeing at the centre included Amy Grant, Australian Crawl, Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, Cliff Richard , David BowieDC Talk, Dire Straits, Elton John (with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra),  Feargal Sharkey, Gangajang, GenesisHoi Polloi, Hoodoo GurusJames Taylor, Joan Armatrading, Joe Jackson , John FarnhamLloyd Cole and the Commotions, MotelsOlivia Newton-JohnPhil CollinsRoxette, SadeSimple Minds, Spandau Ballet, Split EnzTom Petty & the Heartbreakers, U2, Van Morrison, and Whiteheart.

I’m sure there were other shows I saw there as well. I know that I was at the Entertainment Centre for a conference or two, to watch basketball, and even to see Disney on Ice many, many years ago. I also remember sleeping on the pavement outside the Entertainment Centre to get the best possible tickets to a couple of shows.

If you’re a Perth local I’d love to hear some of your memories of the Perth Entertainment Centre. What shows did you see there? Will you be sad to see the old place knocked down?



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The Prestige

I finally got it. I started watching the 2006 movie The Prestige on DVD with my son James last night. He fell asleep but I was already hooked so I watched it all the way through.

The movie stars Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Scarlett Johansson, Michael Caine and David Bowie. The Prestige explores the rivalry between two magicians. There are clues to what’s going on all the way through the movie but it all comes together in the final moments. It’s only once you’ve seen the end that you can understand many of the earlier scenes.

James was up very early today watching the last bit of the movie which he missed last night. I happened to see a few seconds of the movie as he watched and I suddenly had an ‘aha’ moment. It all made sense. The pieces fit perfectly.

I enjoyed the movie last night but there were still some questions in my mind. Now I know exactly what was happening. I’d love to watch it all again right from the beginning with my knew understanding of the plot. What a shame the DVD’s due back today.

There are certainly some darker moments in the movie but if you enjoy some mystery and great acting, check it out.



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Bing, Bowie and the Drummer Boy

I know that it dates me but I’m a fan of both Bing and Bowie. This remains a favourite Christmas song for me. I hope you enjoy it too.



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