How Albert Theatre became Madras’ cultural landmark

In the early 1980s, the cinema experience in Madras was largely concentrated around Mount Road. There were also cinemas in and around Poonamallee High Road and most of the new releases were seen on screens attached to these main roads.

There was no theater in Egmore, a thriving area located equidistant from these two veins of the city. And everything changed with the opening of the Albert complex in October 1984. Consisting of the large screen Albert and the smaller Baby Albert, the venue became a source of pride for those living in the area and was commemorated as follows: name (our) theatre.

Cinema lovers’ paradise

Since the theater was new, it had a contemporary atmosphere and its technical aspects were fluent. Access to the lounge was easy thanks to suburban trains available near Egmore railway station. College students using the Beach-Tambaram line can hop on a train, get off at Egmore, grab a bite to eat in the Impala and walk to Albert to watch the latest movie.

For those who had to catch long-distance trains and did not have time, the theater offered an air-conditioned shelter. A movie could be enjoyed, and for those who were thirsty, the watering holes on nearby Kennet Lane would come in handy. One would then catch night trains or private buses to southern Tamil Nadu.

Albert has quickly become a must-visit spot for Rajinikanth fans. The first screening at the Albert to watch a Rajini movie on the first day was considered a coming of age rite. so be it Talapati or BaashaThe theater exploded when the superstar took the stage. It was his stronghold then, and the loyalists kept coming in droves.

Fans celebrate Rajinikanth starrer’s release Kaala at the Albert Theater | Photo Credit: M. PRABHU

Kamal Haasan’s co-stars were often seen making rounds at the Devi and Sathyam complexes. But like Kamal’s iconic comedy heist, there was a twist in the story. Michael Madana Kama Rajan She found her heart in Albert. The film was a blockbuster as the story of quadruplets, mistaken identities and revenge with a humorous twist struck a chord.

The classic turned 30 this October, and its dialogues are common knowledge to a certain segment of viewers. Albert wasn’t just about tentpole movies; smaller ones with deep-rooted humor Aan Paavamor stylish, urban outings Minsara Kanavuit also found an audience.

While most rival complexes on Mount Road were either closing or choosing to renovate and develop, Age caught up with Albert. There have been days in the recent past when Albert was not performing, but thankfully there was no permanent pause and films continue to be shown.

Old-time patrons have been talking about the need to improve facilities, fervently hoping their favorite theater will gain a second wind, just as Egmore railway station did after switching from meter gauge to broad gauge.