The demolition of the former Victory Theatre building (formerly the Royal Hall) that dates back to the 1920s, started yesterday.

However, the T-Shirt Factory housed at the town side end of the building will stay standing.

Located on the main road in Taputapuatea, Avarua, the building had been in disrepair and had been sitting empty and in bad shape for a period of time.

Over the years the building has been home to a variety of business including a pharmacy, art gallery, dance club, electrical and grocery shops and more.

The late Willie Browne owned the Royal Hall, which for many years was the only cinema in Rarotonga.

During those early years, he would drive around the island handing out flyers, and would give running commentaries on the films in Māori.