The Thousands

With a trial move to the Central Coast imminent, I’m haunted by images of Iguana Joes and the local Federal Member, so it is a relief to have found this little haven. You’ve heard of Cinema Paradiso?… No, not the movie but the REAL thing at Ettalong Beach, just a 20 minute ferry ride across beautiful Broken Bay from Palm Beach.

The Greco Roman-inspired, five theatre complex is situated around a kitsch courtyard complete with fountains, restaurants, motel accommodation and, on weekends, a treasure trove of market stalls.

There’s an outdoor cinema here during summer (which even made seeing Australia bearable!). Cinema Paradiso has it all, and if you don’t like the movie the ambience and decor will more than make up for it.

In true Cinema Paradiso style, this Mother’s Day there will be a live telecast from the Capitol Theatre of the Dame Edna Show, with afternoon tea available in the marble foyer at intermission. I hope it’s in the theatre with the special gilt balcony box seat. If only the sprogs would take me…