The Royal Princess Theatre, 73 View St., Bendigo, was designed by William Charles Vahland and opened on 31/8/1874. It had a capacity of 2000 and was lit by gas until 1898 when electricity became available. The original proprietors were John Croley (1827-1899) and William (Billy) Heffernan (1840-1899). It was Bendigo's first permanent picture house in 1910, with it's first showing being the silent film "The Desert Song". It closed in 1930 before reopening in 1936 after being rebuilt in the Art Deco style. The theatre was finally closed in May 1963 and was demolished.Eight pages souvenir programme. 1874-1955 Royal Princess, Bendigo. Eighty first birthday souvenir programme 31st August 1955. Manager: Don Vincent, price: sixpence, proceeds: cinematograph trade benevolent fund. There is a one-page history of the theatre by Don Vincent. The programme includes stage performances and the screening of "seven brides for seven brothers".royal princess theatre, souvenir programme, eighty first birthady, 1874-1955