Theatre Looks Post-Apocalyptic After Being Deserted For Three Decades

The Petch Siam theatre opened in the beginning of the 1970s, but closed its doors for the last time only ten years later – leaving it deserted for the last three decades.

However, the theatre has managed to maintain its class with the original red seats, projection screens, projectors and curtains.

Part-time photographer and technology teacher, Dax Ward, visited the rusty destination in December 2016.

He said: “The roof is caving in, dust and dirt has gathered on the seats and the floors have been washed away by flooding – but for the most part, all of the elements of a working movie theatre still remain.

“In many ways it’s as if the last film stopped rolling, the audience got up from their seats and walked out, the doors were locked and the place has sat in state for 30 years.

“It has a very post-apocalyptic feel!”

Whilst trying to avoid the high-level of asbestos in the room, Dax met the owners of the property who said they tried every tactic to help the business succeed or make a comeback – but they achieved no triumph.

Dax, 36, continued: “The outside of the building is fairly unremarkable.

“It just looks like a large building or warehouse with no signage or other evidence of what is inside.

“Tourists don’t go here – the town is very off the beaten path – about 40 minutes away from the main sights and lodgings in Sukhotai.”

Dax believes that Thailand is a goldmine for abandoned locations and so he will continue to explore the hidden territories it has to offer.

He said: “I’ve shot five abandoned theatres in the past few months and this one is the only one that still has the seats, screen and even projectors.

“It’s a real gem. I’m really happy with these photos.

“It’s a location with a truly unique atmosphere and I just hope that my pictures caught some of that.”