Our Story
Making Hedland a better place, and loving every second of it
Welcome to the Matt Dann Theatre & Cinema, Hedland’s premier live entertainment and movie venue since 1988. Enjoy the latest blockbusters, live music and performing arts in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere in South Hedland. We believe in delivering culture in comfort, providing an accessible place for everyone in Hedland to experience all the creative industries has to offer.
Each month, we update this website and our Facebook page with upcoming, new release movies. We endeavour to screen a selection of global blockbusters, complimented with bespoke independent cinema to suite a variety of tastes. You have the option of either pre-purchasing your tickets online to secure your seat, or you can purchase in person at our friendly box office. The ultimate cinema experience is right here in Hedland.
Live Show highlights in recent years have included The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow Tour, Toni Childs and Confessions of a Magician. Grounded in our love for the performing arts, we work closely with local schools and community groups throughout the year to engage children with the magic of the stage. This has included interactive workshops, school aged theatre productions and backstage craft workshops. Our in-house technical equipment and expertise gives grassroots theatre participants an experience parallel to any metropolitan centre.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the show!
Looking Back
Matt Dann Theatre & Cinema is named in honour of Matt (Matthias) Dann, a man of Aboriginal descent from Nyul - Nyul tribe on his mother's side and Philippine descent on his father's side, who came to Port Hedland from Beagle Bay in 1927. Matt was the first Aboriginal man to own land in Port Hedland. He and his wife Belinda raised six children. In 1942, along with other local Aboriginal residents, he successfully pioneered primary school education for Aboriginal people in Port Hedland.
Prior to that time Matt was a bosun on the pearling supply schooner "Geraldton". In the 1960's during construction phase, Matt Dann was a leading hand for Goldsworthy Mining's Finucane Island wharf operations. At a time when there were few opportunities for Aboriginal people he was a tower of strength – a giant among men. It is an absolute honour to have our venue named after such a memorable and noble man.
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