555 Theatre & Cabaret and Browns Bay General Store (87-107 Clyde Road)

The 555 Theatre and Cabaret, named after a popular brand of cigarettes, was erected in 1925 and became popularly known as the flea pit. It was the largest building in the bay at the time and had multiple uses. During the early 1930s, films were screened by Phyllis Lovell, reputedly the first woman projectionist in New Zealand. The theatre seats were canvas deck chairs that had a habit of collapsing. After the film, the chairs were packed away and the venue converted into a dance hall.

Saturday night dances attracted numerous visitors, many arriving on yachts laden with beer for consumption on the beach. The absence of any local police in the early days allowed rowdy behaviour to go largely unchecked and earned Browns Bay the moniker “Naughty Bay”. The morning after the night before brought an entirely different crowd to the 555 with a monthly Catholic Mass being held during the 1930s. The mid 1950s saw a Browns Bay concert party known as the “Utopians” put on a number of benefit concerts in aid of charities. Their performances were evidently popular, with the theatre frequently filled to capacity. After an eventful life the 555 was demolished in 1985.

During the early 1920s, a general store was established next door to the 555 Theatre, selling every essential. For many years it was run by Mrs E. Wilkinson, who was well-known as a supporter of the Returned Services Association and other local causes. Her contribution to the community earned her an MBE in 1953.

Continue along Clyde Road.