This iconic place where live theatre was experienced in the thirties and forties, where cinema and roller skating were cult status in Monto’s main street in the 70’s through to the 90’s.
Sadly the doors were closed in the 2000’s and with it a little piece of Monto’s cultural identity faded away.
In 2016 Monto reclaimed this asset and a charitable community led organisation was established with the ambition to reinstate vibrance and vitality into the main street, the community and the North Burnett region.
Join us for The Rex Revival
Our Story
The Rex Theatre is a historic building in the centre of Monto’s main street. Built prior to 1930 with an authentic art deco style, the building has a heart and soul connection with the local rural community.
How It All Began
The building was built by The Apel family who were graziers on the Nogo River in the Rawbelle district. The theatre was knows at the Monto Picture Theatre and used for live performances and events like the New Years Eve ambulance ball.
The Huntings Family purchased The Rex Theatre were trail blazers in presenting the ‘talkies’ and cinema to the rural town of Monto.
The Bambrick’s owned the building for many many decades following and with keen entrepreneurial spirit introduced roller skating and indoor cricket.
Following the passing of Arthur Bambrick, the theatre building was sold to a Queensland coal mining executive and a developer. The building sadly closed in the early 2000’s leaving a gaping whole in Monto’s cultural identity.
In 2016 Monto reclaimed this asset when a small and passionate group of individuals gave time and resources in order for the building to be purchased. A legacy project for a self determined future.
The Theatre building is visible in between the Grand Hotel and Patrick’s Cafe