In September 2023, Hotel Hollywood hosted ‘Hooray for Hollywood’ at the old apartment located above the pub. The exhibit not only showcased the works of more than 100 artists, but it also allowed the public to get a glimpse into the life of Sydney legend Doris Goddard.
Doris was a cabaret performer and screen actor who after appearing in several minor roles in Hollywood movies during the 1950s acquired the pub in 1977 and added to the several other venues that she already owns including the Marlborough Hotel and West End Hotel.
Photo Credit: Facebook / Doris Goddard
“Hooray for Hollywood” opened its doors last month to showcase an impressive collection of over 150 artworks by artists including Blak Douglas, Lindy Lee, and Ken Done, alongside emerging talents and first-time exhibitors such as John Safran. More than the artworks, however, the exhibition was an event not to be missed because of its unique location – the disused apartment that once was the abode of Doris Goddard.
Throughout the exhibition, the former ladies’ bar was adorned by a collection of Doris Goddard’s keepsakes including glamorous photographs from her cabaret performances and cameo appearances, and bundles of heartfelt love letters from various addresses across the globe.
Photo Credit: Facebook / Doris Goddard
After acquiring the Hotel Hollywood, Doris and her husband made it their residence. The pub gained prominence for being the first such establishment in Sydney to be managed by a woman and where men and women are allowed to enjoy drinking together. She, however, had a strict zero-tolerance policy on harassment.
Photo Credit: Facebook / Doris Goddard
Goddard continued to reside above the pub until 18 months before her passing in 2019 at the age of 80. The Hollywood was sold in 2021 to Brody Petersen for $10 million but opted to retain the pub’s artistic essence by removing the gaming machines, introducing weekly live music, and appointing David Wales as its artist-in-residence.
Petersen plans to revamp the venue in the future, adding office spaces across two levels and turning Goddard’s former residence and above floor into co-living space.
Published 5-October-2023
