The much beloved Astor Theatre in Melbourne – a grand old dame that nowadays serves as a repertory cinema, showing classic films and double features – has had a torrid past few years.
Palace Cinemas welcomes Duke who will make the @astor_theatre his new home after being adopted from Lost Dogs’ Home. pic.twitter.com/pRKvtkUXyM
— Palace Cinemas (@palacemelbourne) July 23, 2015
Duke, a black-and-white domestic short haired cat, came from the not-for-profit Lost Dogs’ Home as a rescue. The Astor’s general manger Zak Hepburn stated that there had long been questions from patrons as to whether or not the theatre would adopt a new furry friend following Marzipan’s sad demise.
“Since Palace took over the Astor, there have been so many enquiries as to whether we’d get another cat.”
“While Marzipan is irreplaceable, we thought as this year has marked a new chapter for the Astor, why not give Duke a new chapter in his life? And support a worthy cause like Lost Dogs’ Home.”
Naming their new little mate was an easy task, as his cool swagger and cinematic home lent itself almost obviously to Duke – named for screen legend John Wayne.
“When we picked him out, he was pretty relaxed and had such a nonchalant swagger that I immediately knew his name should be Duke.”
Hepburn encouraged filmgoers to say hello to Duke if they spot him whilst at the Astor.
