While waiting for a friend to arrive at The Cathay, I came across a gallery on the 2nd floor.

It’s tucked away in a corner. The giant projector at the entrance caught my eye.

I never knew about this!

Apparently, it’s been open for a while. I quizzed the guard about this. When I said, “I’ve never heard of the gallery”, he explained that Cathay Organisation doesn’t publicise it much. And it’s only appeared in the papers once (so he said).

The gallery features Dato Loke Wan Tho, his family and their interests. The history of the Cathay Organisation is covered, and there are plenty of cinema artifacts (can you call them artifacts?) like old cinema seats, tickets and the like.

One photo I remember particularly was the old-style cinema poster of ‘Return of the Jedi’ with the words in Malay: JEDI KEMBALI.

Somehow doesn’t have to same ring to it.

I only had time for a quick run through before my friend arrived. Unfortunately, no photos allowed.

They have a one-page website: www.thecathaygallery.com.sg

So, if you’re heading for a movie at The Cathay, drop by the gallery and have a look at our cinematic past!