The Cathay

Opened in 1939, The Cathay wasn’t just a building. It was a statement. A gleaming beacon of modernity, soaring above Singapore’s skyline. The Cathay was the brainchild of Dato Loke Wan Tho, a visionary who dreamed of bringing cinematic magic to the masses. The original Cathay, known then as the Cathay Building, was a marvel of engineering. It was Singapore’s first skyscraper, a testament to human ingenuity. Imagine the awe it inspired, standing tall amidst the more modest structures of the time. The Cathay was more than just a cinema; it was an experience. It was the first air-conditioned public building in Singapore, offering a cool respite from the tropical heat. Patrons could sink into plush armchairs, a luxury unheard of in most cinemas then, and be transported to another world by the flickering images on the screen. It hosted Singapore’s first arthouse cinema, The Picturehouse, in 1990, catering to a more discerning audience. The Cathay Building even played a role in world history. During World War II, it was commandeered by the Japanese and used for propaganda broadcasts. It was here that Subhas Chandra Bose proclaimed the Provisional Government of Free India in 1943. After the war, it became the headquarters of Lord Mountbatten, Supreme Allied Commander of Southeast Asia. The Cathay Building wasn’t immune to the passage of time. By the late 20th century, it had undergone numerous renovations, some more successful than others. Its iconic Art Deco façade was unfortunately concealed behind more contemporary, but less elegant, treatments. Recognizing the need for modernization, the Cathay Organisation closed the building in 2000. While much of the structure was demolished, a portion of the original façade, a national monument, was carefully preserved. The new Cathay, which opened in 2006, pays homage to its predecessor. It houses a multi-screen Cathay Cineplex, including The Picturehouse, continuing the legacy of cinematic excellence. It’s a place where past and present intertwine. So, as you stand before The Cathay today, remember that you’re not just looking at a building. You’re looking at a piece of Singapore’s history, a testament to the enduring power of dreams and the magic of cinema.