21/11/2006

The History of Cinema in Liverpool

By Mark Langshaw

The cinema as a place of popular mass entertainment towered over Liverpool in the first half of the last century. This has left us a rich legacy, not only of picture house buildings (rarely found in their original splendor, often altered and sometimes in a dismal state of neglect), but also of the glorious pictures made for an insatiable and loyal audience. Old black and white photographs, posters, handbills, programmes and lobby cards all bear witness to the fundamental role that cinema played in the lives of the working people of Liverpool.

The city was home to some of the North West’s most luxurious picture houses – havens of escapism adorning every district. Lime Street’s Palais De Luxe, The Forum and The Scala were among the finest cinemas in a region well known for its affinity for moving pictures. A night at the flick was originally a ‘complete night out’. The programme would include a number of long adverts, a news reel, a short film and finally the main feature, often accompanied by a live organ recital.

The end of the golden age of cinema came after the Second World War. The rise of television did to independent cinemas what video did to the radio star. But several of Liverpool’s picture houses battled on against the odds. The Futurist was taken over by 20th Century Fox in 1954. It made a name for itself with screening such as Oklahoma in the new TODD_AO format and later Earthquake, complete with sensurround, the only cinema in Liverpool to utilize the technology. The Bedford Cinema chain - which included the Abbey Cinerama in Wavertree and many others like King's Hall at Anfield, Mayfair on Aigburth Road and the Plaza in Allerton - also fought on.

It was the emergence of the modern multiplex that dealt the fatal blow to independent cinema in the latter part of the last century. Odeon and National Amusements had a Walmart-like effect on local cinemas across the nation, putting many of the remaining picture houses out of business.

The multiplex invasion hit Liverpool in the early 1970s when London Road’s great Paramount Theatre - once the largest in the Merseyside area - was converted into a five screen Odeon Cinema. Odeon still operate the cinema today but it is a far cry from the art nouveau building of the 1930s.

In Liverpool, several relics of this age still remain in varying states of decay. The Woolton Picturehouse remained in full operation until 3rd September 2006, following the death of its owner David Wood, whose untimely passing marked the end of an era. Since opening in 1927, the Woolton provided cinema enthusiasts with a glimpse of the golden era, offering a ‘complete’ experience reminiscent of the days before television. A new Save the Woolton Campaign aims to reinstate the cinema back into the community and operate it as a charitable trust. All profits will be driven back into the cinema and ultimately the community through the building’s use as a centre for performing arts and film related activities.

The Gaumont Palace cinema was based in Anfield, a large art deco building just 100 meters from the football ground. Its heyday was the 1940s but the building still plays an important role within the local community. Now known as the Liverpool Lighthouse, it operates as an Urban Gospel Arts Centre in the heart of Anfield. It is home to a range of exciting educational and arts entertainment programmes for the community. Harmonize is an alternative education programme designed to engage and motivate young people aged 14-19. This unique Urban Arts programme deals with the challenges facing young people, aiming to encourage them creatively.

The Rialto Cinema in Toxteth was a famous landmark throughout the 1950s. This historic building was burned to the ground in the Toxeth riots of 1981 but has since been rebuilt. It now houses offices, flats and shops.

Liverpool has an illustrious cinema history but what does the future hold for the 08 Capital of Culture? Several relics of the golden age still remain in the Woolton and the Plaza in Crosby, but their future is clouded and both face an uphill struggle to survive. The Picturehouse at FACT, however, has proven a worthy flagship for 2008, and remains the only cinema in the city to screen world cinema. In addition to this, the Philharmonic Hall often holds screenings of old classics complete with an organ recital reminiscent of better times for independent cinema.

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Sorry Comments Closed

Comment left by Dave Parr on 4th March, 2007 at 16:26
woolton picture house to reopen early 2007

Comment left by John Howell on 12th April, 2007 at 16:21
Hi, could you provide me with the complete address of the Futurist Cinema on Lime Street in Liverpool. This may, perhaps, include a building name. Many thanks.

Comment left by Ray Condell on 19th October, 2007 at 10:17
Hi, we semm to have a debate here on which is the first purpose built cinema to be licenced in Liverpool ? Now whether or not it's to do with alchol not sure because I thouht all cinemas were licenced under the music hall act ?

Comment left by DAVID A ELLIS on 7th March, 2008 at 11:37
Here is a list of some of the projection equipment in Liverpool cinemas. ODEON,London Road.When it was the PARAMOUNT theatre it had SIMPLEX machines. When it became the ODEON KALEE 21 projectors were used. When 70mm arrived in the late 1950s PHILIPS DP70 machines were installed. Later CINEMECCANICA projectores were installed and are still in use. ABC FORUM, Lime Street. ROSS GC3 machines with PEERLESS carbon arcs and RCA sound. Later PHILIPS FP20 were in use with xenon lamps. FUTURIST, Lime Street. KALEE machines with ASHCRAFT carbon arcs. When 70mm was shown the equipment was changed to PHILIPS DP70s. GAUMONT, Camden street (now a car park) KALEE 21 machines with PRESIDENT carbon arcs and DUOSONIC sound. SCALA, Lime Street. KALEE 21 machines. JACEY FILM THEATRE,Clayton Square. BTH SUPA (Single Unit Projection Assembly). ESSOLDO, London Road. KALEE 21 projectors. MAJESTIC, London Road. WESTAR projectors, PEERLESS carbon arcs and WESTERN ELECTRIC sound. TATLER NEWS THEATRE, Church Street. ROSS GC3 machines with KALEE VULCAN arcs and RCA sound. MAYFAIR, AIGBURTH ROAD. KALEE 11 projectors with KALEE REGAL LAMPHOUSES, later changed to CINEMECCANICA XENON LAMPS. It also had WESTERN ELECTRIC SOUND with the addition of FOUR TRACK MAGNETIC SOUND. Most films had an optical soundtrack. The last stereo film (four track) at the MAYFAIR was WOODSTOCK. DAVID A ELLIS

Comment left by george brian miller on 3rd April, 2008 at 22:00
I have just wrote a page (A4 size) and then got it wrong by not putting the CODE in I am only new at this game , I am 67 years of age and have only just started to use a comPOOTer ,if you get this then I will come back to you,my mother and my aunty worked at the Tatler and others in and around L,Pool about 1947/and onward ,look farward to hearing from you Brian.

Comment left by DAVID A ELLIS on 10th April, 2008 at 17:36
Memories of the Mayfair, Aigburth. In 1969 I went to work at the Mayfair cinema on Aigburth Road, Liverpool as a second projectionist. There was only two projectionists myself and the chief operator Brian Cubbon, who was sixteen years my senior. I was twenty-one when I started projecting in Aigburth's super cinema, which opened in 1937 with the film Educating Evans, starring Max Miller. When I started, the tabs (curtains) had gone and the old screen had been replaced with what was called a floating screen and screen masking was no longer used. The screen appeared to be floating, a gimmick I have not seen elsewhere. The Mayfair was owned by Bedford Cinemas (1928) Ltd run by a Mr JF Wood. They owned several cinemas including The Abbey Cinerama, Wavertree and The Plaza Birkenhead. The Mayfair housed around 1700 people. There was a Compton organ, which was still played occasionally when I worked there. The circuit manager a Mr Ian Hamilton would often pop in to blow the cobwebs off the Compton, keeping us entertained. A schoolteacher would also play occasionally until it stopped working. The Mayfair had always kept up with new ideas. In the 1950s it played 3D films. When Fox introduced Cinemascope with four magnetic tracks the cinema installed four track. The automation system, Projectomatic, invented by Essoldo was also a feature. When I went there Cinemeccanica xenons had replaced the Kalee Regal carbon arcs. Kalee eleven projectors, installed in 1937 were still projecting the images. Attached to the projector was a Western Electric optical sound head and the magnetic head. The eleven had a frames per second meter. When a changeover took place using the projectomatic, the sound would drop out when the xenon switched in. 5000ft spoolboxes were still in use - these replaced the original 2000ft boxes when 3D was installed. Valves were used for sound amplification. There were four amplifiers - all in use when four track films were played. Joins were made with film cement. The last feature was The Last Picture Show, screened in 1973.

Comment left by DAVID A ELLIS on 12th April, 2008 at 16:33
MORE MAYFAIR MEMORIES. The cinema had a large entrance hall. The paybox was central. To the left of the paybox was a sweet kiosk. This was run by a young lady by the name of Gloria Oldroyd. By the sweet kiosk there was a set of doors that led to the downstairs waiting room. There were staircases to the left and right. There was a large upstairs waiting room housing sofas. The manager's office was on this level. Entrance to the projection room was at the back of the balcony on the right hand side. There was a door that led to an iron staircase which took you to a door that led to a corridor. Off the corridor to the right was the projection room. There were two doors to the box, both being very strong fire proof doors.There were other rooms off the corridor. There was a wash room, a battery room for secondary lighting, a staff room, the old rewind room (when I was there rewinding was done in the box) and a stock room, storing lamps etc. Off the corridor to the left was a door that led to the roof. We could look over and see what was ging on in Aigburth Road.At the other end of the corridor was an iron staircase that went to street level. It was at the bottom of this staircase that films were put for return. Also the film transport service (FTS) would leave films there, having their own set of keys. Films were only shown in the evening, apart from a Wednesday and Saturday matinee. Films were screened during the day when school holidays were on. The programme would usually start around five - the main feature shown twice and the support once.In its last year there was only one complete performance starting around seven, though this would vary.My days off were Monday and Tuesday. The chief's days off were Thursday and Friday. We worked together on Wednesdays and Saturdays. During holiday periods we would run on our own. There were times when I ran the show on my own without a day off for two weeks. My working day was from 10am until the end of the show. I would usually work until lunch time, have a break, come back and do some more work and then have a tea break before starting the show. I worked at the cinema from 1969 until its closure in 1973. DAVID A ELLIS

Comment left by DAVID A ELLIS on 17th May, 2008 at 16:38
A while ago I spoke to retired projectionist and manager Geoff Mander, who worked in several Liverpool cinemas. He managed the Palladium,West Derby Road and occasionally did some operating. The cinema,now demolished was run by Don and Ray Ellis. Projection equipment was Kalee 12s. Four track magnetic stereo was another feature. When business started to wane Geoff suggested a variety show. Shows were staged on a Sunday evening and it was called Sunday Night at the Liverpool Palladium.Other Liverpool cinemas he has worked in include The Regent, Old Swan, which was equipped with Ross machines and RCA sound,the Classic Crosby, which ran films using Kalee 21 machines and the Mere Lane cinema,which also had Kalee 21s on Universal bases. The first cinemascope offering at Mere Lane was The Student Prince. Geoff tells me his cinema career started at the Astra Magul.

Comment left by Mike on 27th July, 2008 at 2:15
Does anyone know what cinema equipmet is in use for film showings at the philamonic hall? any idea what sound system they use?

Comment left by Paul John Purnell on 30th July, 2008 at 1:28
Hi,I am trying to locate old cinemas in merseyside that had cinema organs installed.My goal and ultimate aim and acheivement is to find an organ that is still installed inside one of the cinemas that is hopefully still standing and possibly being used as a night club,bingo hall or supermarket at the moment.It might just be that the chambers and console on a lift have simply just been boxed up,plastered over or covered up in one way or another.I need to find out if the building is still standing and to whether it is a definate fact that the organ was definately removed when the cinema closed.I really hope that you can help me on my investigations,thank you Paul.

Comment left by Richard on 1st August, 2008 at 22:15
Re. Mike's question on 27th July. I am one of the technicians at the Phil, and I'm also one of the projectionists. We use a Strong Century projector with a Strong (I think!) lamphouse. We have a microverter speed control fitted to the projector motor to permit speeds from 16 - 25 fps. We use a single sided Westrex tower to carry the film, permitting shows of around 170 minutes without a break. Sound is SR only, at present. Our red light analogue reader (suitable for both silver and cyan dyed soundtracks) is wired to a Dolby CP65 Processor, and this outputs via three crossovers (for L, C and R) to C-Audio 2001 amps driving JBL speakers for L, C, R and LFE, and some smaller boxes which are of an unknown make for surround. We have a Dolby 700 or 701 digital soundhead fixed to the top of the projector, but cannot use this, as we need a new Dolby DA20 Digital decoder. Hope this information is useful! If you have an further questions, please email me: rcurtis@liverpoolphil.com Regards, Richard

Comment left by brian linford on 7th August, 2008 at 12:56
I'am looking for information about the Centuay Picture House, Mount Pleasant

Comment left by Steve Reece on 9th August, 2008 at 13:52
Am I the only one to note that the Odeon (formerly the Paramount) on London Road was converted to a FOUR screen theatre, not a five? The fifth screen came later in what I believe was the bar. What happened to the huge auditorium of the Abbey now that Rileys are running it as a snooker hall and Somerfield have the downstairs as a supermarket? Is it still in a position to be used as a picture house or is that lost forever?

Comment left by George Butler on 21st August, 2008 at 13:44
Please help me.I am desperatly trying to add a page to my Web Site showing two projectors like were used around 1935 t0 1937 The kind using 8 spools each film the two shutters coupled with a string to change from one spool to the other. I need an image and can't find one anywhere.I am 88 yrs of age and when I was 17 yrs old I used this type. If you click on www.bitshack.plus.com/smalwld1.htm you will see what I mean. TIA George

Comment left by Lin on 24th August, 2008 at 22:24
Does anyone remember the Mere Lane Picture House, commonely known as the flee pit, before it became a bingo hall and then a snooker hall.

Comment left by Chris D on 5th September, 2008 at 10:46
Hi all, I'm looking for some information on the Odeon/ABC Allerton Road....If anyone can help please post here :] Cheers.

Comment left by patricia hughes on 8th September, 2008 at 15:50
Hi i am looking for any info on concert by Ray Charles at Odeon Cinema London Road late 50's or early 60's

Comment left by Arnold Levin on 20th September, 2008 at 20:13
I recall that the Abbey Cinema at Picton Clock tower was converted to screen Cinerama in the late 50s. When did it close? I am interested to locate information about early cinemas in Liverpool in the first decades of the 20th century? Were there screens in the Brownlow Hill area and nearby?

Comment left by Dave Harris on 17th October, 2008 at 15:19
can anybody tell me what building occupies the site of the old tatler news theatre in Church street? Thanks.

Comment left by Zoe Rae on 23rd October, 2008 at 19:32
Im looking for information about the locations of cinemas in the interwar periods in liverpool. Its my area of study and im quite interested in any such materials. Thank you.

Comment left by John Stevens on 4th November, 2008 at 15:09
David Ellis 12th April mentions FTS as the company swapping the films each week. I work for FTS (now an International film & media storage and distribution company)and trading as Bonded Services. We have recently been contacted by a retired projectionist seeking a picture of our old trucks which were very distinctive. They were old bull nosed trucks, black with our orange logo of the letters FTS one on top of the other. Does anyone know of the existance of such a photo please.

Comment left by Angie on 12th November, 2008 at 14:50
Does anyone have any images of an event which took place in 1957 at The Forum in Liverpool, it was a film premiere of a movie called These Dangerous Years. my colleague was a 10 year old boy who presented the stars of the movie with flowers at the end of the show. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Comment left by Paula Leather on 10th December, 2008 at 16:05
My dad remembers watching " I shall return" also know in the USA as American Guerriall in the philippines with Tyrone Power at the odeon in Liverpool and they opened the film with a live marching band through the cinema, had anyone got any info or pictures they can share, thanks

Comment left by Ian Macnaught on 31st December, 2008 at 10:48
Reply to the comment by John Paul Purnell. The Organ, a Compton 3/6, from the Mayfair Cinema was removed by a friend of the builders who were converting to bingo and stored at a mill in Waterside. He died and the organ was bought by Ian macnaught of Glasgow. Who sold it to the Summerlee Heritage Museum in Coatbridge, near Glasgow, where it was installed for many years. They rebuilt to museum and took the organ away to store, where it remains today. You can contact them via their website and ask what it going to happen to it in the future. Regards

Comment left by Pat Mcmanaman on 12th January, 2009 at 14:54
Is there anybody out there that remembers the Majestic Cinema, Doulby St, Top of London Road. My mother was the chief cashier there for years and Mr Plimmer the manager, used to give me the old stills of the pictures featured in the outside display cases. These I still have dating back to the 1940's.

Comment left by ARUN PADHIAR on 31st January, 2009 at 16:32
Could you please send to me operating instructions with pictures of Gaumont Kalee projectors,model 19,20 and 21,35mm.I have operated Kalee model before GK21 which had round spool box in the projector and not the square one.I am talking about year 1970.

Comment left by ken latham on 15th April, 2009 at 3:19
was 2nd. at the regent, old swan early 1950s, am interested in contacting any projectionist who worked there. The chief was a Mr. Hudson the time I was there

Comment left by Keith Rose on 13th June, 2009 at 21:20
I remember the Majestic and have inside pictures of its demolition. Would love to contact Pat Mcmanaman, to share.

Comment left by maureen howell on 17th June, 2009 at 7:14
My brother says that the B Bedford building in Bedford Road Walton was one of the oldest buildings used for a cinema(now demolished)

Comment left by David Evans on 17th June, 2009 at 11:18
I used to go along to the MAGNET CINEMA in Picton Road, Wavertree when I was young in the 50s. The highlights were Superman and Flash Gordon. There was a laundry next door which my mother used.

Comment left by Graham Midgley on 18th June, 2009 at 12:11
Re Bedford Cinema. If I recall correctly one had to make sure you did not sit behind one of the pillars holding up the balcony

Comment left by peggy merrill (USA) on 6th August, 2009 at 22:32
My grandfather was a supervisor for the Associated British Films.He oversaw movies houses in the Liverpool area. After the stock market crash in 1929, He ran 1 movie house on lime st. and an Astoria cinema in Anfeild, Merseyside. I'm not sure if those are the right addresses, my mother told me about these, and now she has passed away. His name was Joseph Kennelly, lived in Liverpool L4 on Walton Breck Road. If anyone out there has any information about any of this, I would greatly appreciate it. I have written many letters to inquire about this to no avail. Thank you so much.

Comment left by Neringa on 12th September, 2009 at 23:04
Im looking for information about the the actual TYPEFACE used for PLAZA in Crosby cinema. Its my area of study and I would like to find out what tyeface was used. Thanks.

Comment left by david clarke on 24th September, 2009 at 22:43
i found this article great and brought back a lot of memories.during the 50s i lived in berwick street l6 and my local pictures were called the cozie on boaler street has anyone any info on its history and any pictures of it the building is in a poor state of repair,its sad to see

Comment left by Harry Wakeford on 30th September, 2009 at 0:23
I worked at the Regent Old Swan in the 50s, i transferred from the Carlton Tuebrook, I only worked there for a short time and then went on relief for Merseyside and Chester. if any one feels like making contact feel free to do so

Comment left by Mark James-Foote on 16th October, 2009 at 17:48
Can anybody remember the names of any of the 'Members Only' cinemas of Liverpool, 60s > 70s?

Comment left by Chris hall on 6th November, 2009 at 22:11
Re Harry Wakeford. 30th. September 09. Harry, my father Harry Hall was the first projectionist at the Carlton Tuebrook 1937/39 when we left Liverpool to live in the Black Country, Stourbridge, West Midlands, my Mom and Dads home town. I was 8 yrs old. Do you have any photos of the Carlton and area as I am trying to put together some history of the my early years in Liverpool for my offspring. Incidentely, My father Harry, was chief projectionist and electrician at the Liverpool Empire prior to moving to the then brand new Carlton cinema. We lived on Townsend Avenue. I can remember some of the spectacular pantomimes at the L,pool Empire between 1936 and 39. My Dad was projectionist at a cinema/theatre, can't remember the name, in Birkenhead. I was borne in Rock Ferry prior to dad and mom and brother Denis moving to Liverpool. Ant information from anyone who possibly new my dad would be most welcome.

Comment left by Brian D. Johnson on 8th November, 2009 at 20:57
Does anyone have pictures and historic details of the Curzon, Old Swan, particularly relating to the late 1940's period. A most elegant cinema.

Comment left by Richard Jones on 13th November, 2009 at 20:16
The Granada in Dovecote had a live organ show in the fifties. I don't go that area anymore, so I don't know if it still exists. It was converted to a Bing hall at one time.

Comment left by Rob Clare on 15th November, 2009 at 20:35
The 'Cappie' -the Capitol Overton Street. Became a bowling alley in the late 60's and is now a shop - Taskers building supplies. It was a palace, a place to escape Saturday afternoon's - roy rogers, flash gordon, batman etc. It was classic art deco building - I remember seeing the Ten Commandments - my first visit to the 'pics' and being terrified.

Comment left by John P Love on 16th November, 2009 at 10:52
In the middle 50's I was in management at the Gaumont Anfield. I have many memories of the building and of the staff. George Shacklady was foreman, Mrs Nevins the cashier,Mr Ball the Fireman.Mr S V Murdoch the Manager of whom I replaced as Manager for a period, when he was absent.Happy days.

Comment left by Paul Morrissey on 23rd November, 2009 at 20:38
Does anybody remember ‘The Tattler’ on London Road between ‘The Odeon’ and ‘The Majestic. I remember going past it as a kid on my way to school but can't remember much else.

Comment left by DAVID A ELLIS on 25th November, 2009 at 18:25
The Tatler cinema was in Church Street, showing news and cartoon films. Projection equipment was Ross, sound RCA and lamp houses by Kalee, the Vulcan model. Chief projectionist was a Mr Teesdale. It was only a small theatre and flowers would decorate the each side of the proscenium. Cartoon,documentaries and news was shown all day. It was cheap to go in and people would go in until their train or bus was due. After cartoons it became a cinema club, showing uncensored films. The one in London Road was the Essoldo, which showed second run features. This also became a cinema club. I think,but I am not sure that this was re-named Tatler after the closure of the Church Street cinema. Can anyone confirm. David A Ellis

Comment left by june on 27th November, 2009 at 21:58
was 'Mash' shown on the Futurist, Lime St. Liverpool 1970 or the Odeon London Road. To settle an issue.

Comment left by june on 27th November, 2009 at 22:28
Angie left a message re-'These Dangerous Years' My father, Tom Boyle, was the artist that painted the posters that were put on the wall of the cinema. Frankie Vaughan gave him a watch as a 'thank you' my dad did have prints of the film but I think they are long gone.

Comment left by ALFIE BLOHM on 9th December, 2009 at 18:55
I worked at the Odeon London Road as a projectionist from 1953 to 1958. Was there when the first cinemascope film the Robe opened. South Pacific 70mm equipment was installed whilst I worked there.

Comment left by Alfie Blohm on 24th December, 2009 at 16:45
Whe I started at the Odeon London Road we had Kaylee 21 projector, Westrex optical sound and Peerles arc lamps. This was in 1953.I wonder what happened to Joe Edwards who was there then.

Comment left by Marcus D'Arby on 31st January, 2010 at 14:42
To the gentleman asking about the Odeon Alerton. This cinema is now operating above Iceland, modernised by TESCO in the 1970's. I hope this will be of some use ?

Comment left by Marcus D'Arby on 31st January, 2010 at 14:46
Can anyone tell me please. What has happened to the Gaumond Cinema Park Road L Pool 8.

Comment left by Cara Oladeji on 13th February, 2010 at 17:15
We have just cleared out our loft and we found a man's jacket with a Tatler leaflet inside. Leaflet is in excellent condition, don't know the year but it gives the listings for November for the Tatler cinema club London Road Liverpool!

Comment left by j tierney on 20th March, 2010 at 11:32
I was standing at the side of m&s in Tarleton st I was looking at a building that looked like a old picturehouse it had a castle on it now a sports shop can anybody tell me the name of it? thanks.

Comment left by derek edwards on 4th April, 2010 at 14:43
Re- the tattler on church street and not london road I think the cinema you are thinking about was called the KINGS on london road it was next door to derwent house a tv rental shop weather it was the essoldo before I cant say Hope this is of some use.

Comment left by Bill Rodgers on 18th April, 2010 at 12:41
For Peggy Merril (USA) regarding the Astoria. Located at the end of Walton Rd. at the junction with Kirkdale Rd. and Everton Valley. It is actually in Kirkdale not Anfield. Started by a gentleman called 'Old Mr. Epstien' in my family, who was a friend of my grandfather, and he asked him to go into partnership with him to open it in the early 1900's. Grandad said no, which was unfortunate, as Old Mr. Epstien's son Brian, later became well known as the Beatles manager. I spent many happy hours there at the kid's Saturday morning matinee, and if memory serves me correctly, it closed in the mid 1970's. I hope this information sheds a little more light on the matter for you.

Comment left by Bill Rodgers on 18th April, 2010 at 13:33
Regarding the 'Tatler' Church street. 1962 till after 1965 when I married, my wife was an usherette there, and I worked there also, for a time. In the 'Box' the Chief was Jim Teesdale, the 2nd Vera Taylor, the 3rd Denis Jones, and of course little old me. One of the doormen was Bob Easton. Everyone had a pair of 'Wellies' as the basement was below water level at high tide, and the tidal valve in the staff toilet used to stick open, with dismaying regularity, flooding the place with a mixture of the river Mersey, and sewage. In the early 60's, there was not a great deal of difference between the two. When this happend, it was literally all hands to the pumps and clean the place up. To the right of the building, and behind the stage, a cast iron spiral staircase ran from the roof to the basement, with access from the box via the false roof (Aspace between the hall cieling and the roof). Rumour has it that a night watchman fell from the top to the bottom, and was obviously killed, but wasn't found untill a week later, when he failed to pick up his wages, which were left in the kiosk for him. His ghost was reported to haunt the staircase. The workshop was half way down this staircase, and although I never saw or heard anything, on one occaision when I was working in the workshop, I suddenly went cold, and knew I just had to get out. Wild horses would not have held me back, but after a cup of tea in the box, a half hour later I went back, and everything was fine. Strange or what ? The arc lamps were originally fed from generators in the basement, but in the 60's these had been replaced with 3 phase mercury arc rectifiers in the box. The scam for teenagers was to tell the doorman they were going to the coffee bar (Located adjacent to the stairs leading to the circle) and then try and sneak past the usherette and get into the hall. I once did an all nighter with Jim Teesdale, after a normal working day, decorating the coffee bar, I kept my energy up by helping myself to the brown sugar in the store room. I expected a telling off when he caught me, but he simply said he had been wondering wher I got all my energy from, and started doing the same. I have often wondered if the coffe bar staff ever found out where two bags of brown sugar disapeared to. A long time ago, but some verry good memories.

Comment left by paul gallagher on 28th April, 2010 at 8:37
my father james gallagher's first job after leaving school was working in the projector room at the majestic on london rd, he always used to tell me that they showed the first "talkie" in liverpool... dont know if its true but it had me spellbound from an early age... anyone else with memories wants to contact me then please do! mexico1977uk@gotmail.com

Comment left by paul gallagher on 28th April, 2010 at 8:38
stupid fingers!! that should be mexico1977uk@hotmail.com

Comment left by H Wakeford on 21st May, 2010 at 20:46
Re: Chris Hall, comment left on 6th Nov 2009, Your dad woked at the Carlton Cinema Tuebrook before my time, I started working there in 1955, I do have a few phots of the Carlton and many other Cinemas in Liverpool. It is called The Dream Palaces Of Liverpool by Harold Ackroyd, an ex empolyee of ABC Cinemas Liverpool. I also have a link sent to me of the Carlton in it's present state. It have been left to rot for many years, the interior is in a sorry state. The Cinema i worked in at Birkenhead was the Savoy, that is now a night club and fitness club.I now live in Pensby Wirral but have lived mostly in Liverpool, at one address, we lived not far from Townsend Avenue.Please keep in touch and let me know how you are progressing.I would be only to pleased to take some photos of the Carlton and e.mail them on to you if you want. it's only by chance that i saw your reply, but will now keep an eye on this sight.

Comment left by Marc D'Arby on 30th May, 2010 at 18:56
Does anyone know if the closed down ABC in Argyle st Birkenhead is still standing? I worked there as projectionist some years ago.

Comment left by DAVID A ELLIS on 28th June, 2010 at 19:03
The Kings cinema in London Road became the Essoldo, which showed second run shows. Projection equipment consisted of Kalee 21 projectors and Duosonic sound. Further up London Road was the Majestic. This was equipped with Westar projectors, Western Electric sound and Peerless carbon arcs.The ABC Forum was equipped with Ross projectors, later changing to Philips FP20s. The Scala had Kalee 20s,the Futurist Kalee later changing to Philips DP70s when 70mm was installed. The Gaumont, Camden Street was equipped with Kalee 21s with President carbon arcs and Duosonic sound. The Odeon, which was the Paramount had Simplex machines in its Paramount days. later Kalee 21s were installed. When 70mm was shown in 1958, the first being South Pacific, it was Philips DP 70s that projected the images. Later Cinemeccanica was used. The Jacey, Clayton Square had BTH SUPA machines.

Comment left by philip rosen on 8th August, 2010 at 17:23
in the 1950s I worked as projectionist at the Continental cinema in Wallasy and later at the Embassy in Wallasey. I would be most interested to make contact with any of my colleagues from those far off days e.g. Maurice Luck or Leslie Robinson or to have photos of the two cinemas in question for my researches

Comment left by david clarke on 29th August, 2010 at 17:33
Does anyone have a photo or photos of the cosy cinema on boaler street,it was my local pictures during my childhood in berwick street L6,i recently returned to the area and the building although looking the worse for wear is still standing.happy memories of johnny mackbrown and heckle and jeckle.dave clarke

Comment left by Steve Battarbee on 6th September, 2010 at 14:28
72 Walton Vale is now Wetherspoons pub and before that was in the hands of at least one supermarketbut before that it was a Cinema.I believe the steps into the old cinema were paved over but this has created a dangerous slope on which people a falling. I am seeking information about who owned the cinema, when it was closed and the subsequent owners. I would really like to see photos of the cinema when the steps outside existed. I am a local solicitor acting for three genuine clients wh were all injured at the same spot. Can anyone help? Steve Battarbee kbklaw Marian Sq. Netherton 286 6700

Comment left by Peter Hodge on 9th November, 2010 at 0:02
Hi Marc yes the A B C Savoy in argyle st is still standing.It is used as a snookere hall now. Iused to work there as aProjectionist in 1956 The chefe projectionist then was Doug Edwards whoe whent onto the A B C Forom in Liverpool.I went onto the Regent in tranmere and finisht at the Coliciem old chester road.Those where the days.Peter (john.hodge1@yahoo.co.uk)

Comment left by John P Love on 25th November, 2010 at 12:53
I must make comment on GAUMONT PALACE Oakfield Road Anfield. I was AssistantManager/then Manager in 1956/7. No mention of this General Theatre Corporation/Gaumont British/CMALtd Theatre. 1600 seats 1100 stalls/500 circle. Art Deco 1931.closed 1962. NOW the Liverpool Lighthouse. Many memories- George Shacklady Foreman-Mrs Nevins Cashier.George Newman First projectionist. Usherette Mrs Grounds- Previos Manager Mr S Murdoch whose sister was Cashier at the Gaumont Camden Street.

Comment left by Chris Brown on 10th December, 2010 at 22:23
I worked as a projectionist at the Essoldo London Road for several years. It was the Kings cinema before Essoldo took it in 1957. It changed briefly to the Curzon in 1972 then was renamed the Tatler until 1979. It eventually closed as the Eros. It was actually equipped with a pair of Kalee 20's on 18 bases and were fitted with Peerless magnarcs. Duosonic sound was installed but had not been used for many years. In fact, the mag heads were removed in 1972. The amp that was used was a small APC amp.

Comment left by CHRIS INGRAM on 26th December, 2010 at 18:48
Very interesting site. Does anyone know of a 1930s cinema in the Liverpool area that had four circular porthole windows on the four corners of the facade and is believed to be the twin of the DANILO Cinema Cannock (Feb 1939). Clive Garner told me of it many years ago but then I didn't make a note of it. It was run by Southan Morris and later Essoldo.

Comment left by Mike Evans on 19th February, 2011 at 19:46
Hi All I'm trying to find out the name of an old cinema in jackson street birkenhead. The building remains but is now used as a gym and its very near to the birkenead tunnel queensway entrance, does anyon eknow what it was called. Its on the very corner of Hind st and jackson street. It was once called the Bee Hive Club in the 1970's thanks

Comment left by Julie Hewitt on 10th June, 2011 at 16:02
Re Gaumont Palace - my mum worked there early 1960's - does anyone remember her? Lily Mary Hassan?

Comment left by Terco on 18th June, 2011 at 15:48
Fascinating to read about early Liverpool cinemas. My favourite was The Rivoli on Aigburth Road. My Dad used to take my Brother and I on a Sunday night to see old Abbott and Costello movies. Happy times'

Comment left by Tercotercolt on 18th June, 2011 at 15:56
Does anyone recall The Continental Cinema in Wallasey. I saw The Green Mare's Nest there. sometime in the early sixties. It was a great little experimental oasis in an otherwise rather bland landscape!

Comment left by tercol on 1st July, 2011 at 16:13
About the Continental Cinema in Wallasey. My apologies. I missed the comment by Phillip Rosen

Comment left by E.Lawson on 1st August, 2011 at 17:42
Hi can any of your readers remember a projectionist called Walter Cantrell who worked at the Futurist cinema during the 1940's.I would be most grateful for any information concerning this person who is one of my late uncles.

Comment left by Jiimy Tiler on 30th August, 2011 at 11:36
I was just seeking this info for a while. After six hours of continuous Googleing, at last I got it in your site. I wonder what's the Google's problem that does not rank this kind of informative websites closer to the top. Generally the top web sites are full of garbage.

Comment left by arthur bunting on 24th October, 2011 at 12:58
Anyone out there got a picture of the Lytton cinema in Lytton Street off Everton Road

Comment left by tercol on 24th October, 2011 at 17:46
Does anyone remember Geoff Dowd who worked at the Gaumont in Park Road Dingle, sometime in the fifties ?

Comment left by Liam Smith on 27th October, 2011 at 11:13
Would like to get in touch with John P Love. John, if you read this please call Liverpool lighthouse 01514762342 as we would love to hear more about your memories of our building. Please call and ask for Liam

Comment left by Tom Jones on 8th December, 2011 at 19:00
I was a projectionist at the Regent Old Swan and also for a short time at the Carlton Tuebrook. I saw a post from 2004 by Harry Wakeford. I have sent an email to Harry but as the post is dated he may not get it. if you see this harry I would like to share memories with you. my email is thomaswilljones@googlemail.com

Comment left by Ann higginson on 5th January, 2012 at 18:59
My boyfriend Ron higginson worked at the Continental early '50's then when to work with his dad as a slater and tiler.About 30 years ago we went to a museum in an old spining and weaving works they had a small display of electrical things including the type of projector he had worked on in the Continental. We spoke to the curator, who was absolutley thrilled that someone knew how to work it as nobody had had a clue up till then!

Comment left by Stan Cooper on 8th February, 2012 at 9:46
When I was a boy in Liverpool in the 30s there was a cinema in Wavertree at the corner of Smithdown Rd and Fallowfield Rd. Can anyone please tell me what it was called and what happened to it.

Comment left by Leslie Robinson on 13th February, 2012 at 23:33
To my dear friend Philip Rosen who I worked with at the Continental in the 1950's, I am absolutely delighted to find you here. Please contact me when you can. Leslie

Comment left by tercol on 17th February, 2012 at 16:36
Re comment by Stan Cooper (8.2.12) I believe this cinemas was THE GRAND. It was quite a small flea pit of a place. I think it closed in the sixties, along with a lot of the smaller venues. Hope this helps !!

Comment left by les braben on 12th April, 2012 at 6:20
Hi Jeff, Hope your still around, I worked with him in the gaumont dingle back in the fifties, Harry Feeney was chief and Charlie Seaman was the 2nd op.

Comment left by les braben on 12th April, 2012 at 6:32
Hi outthere, any memories from anyone who worked in the 50's at the Gaumont dingle, or the news theatre clayton square.

Comment left by Steve Cardus on 12th April, 2012 at 13:05
Hi - I know it's a long shot, but does anybody remember my dad : Bob Cardus, he was a projectionist in Liverpool in the late 50s - early 60s. He passed away in 1986 and I would like to try and find out where he worked all them years ago.

Comment left by Karen Price on 13th April, 2012 at 13:29
In response to Dave Clarke's comment on the 'Cosy Cinema' Boaler Street. There are picture on the Internet if you Google the cinema and the address. I too am looking for information about this cinema as my Great Grandmother was allegedly a shareholder. If anyone has any further information I'd appreciate it.

Comment left by Christina Condron on 9th May, 2012 at 16:09
I am currently doing a community heritage project about cinemas in Waterloo, Crosby, Seaforth, Litherland and Bootle specifically looking at the 1930's to the 1960's anybody with old photo's, memorabilia or wishing to share their memories please get in touch Thanks

Comment left by Mike Donnelly on 9th May, 2012 at 17:33
I have read with interest what so many people feel about the great old cinemas of the years gone by, i am not too old but at 50 years of age i can vividly remember my mum taking me to many of them to see stuff like jungle book (first time around) and as she used to work in one she got in for free, i loved going to the cinema to see the big movies of the day, i have a very special memory that some of you may recall , i saw the very last movie that was shown at the abby on picton road, what a cinema, massive screen and splendid decor.... boy did we mess up closing that place down. The last movie shown at the abby was the Towering inferno, the hand painted massive flyer posters were still stuck to the outside of the building for some time after it closed. Its been a real pleasure to read some of the posts, keep up the good work, Mike.

Comment left by Peter on 16th July, 2012 at 13:52
Can anyone tell me the history of the Cameo Cinema that was on the corner of Bird Street and Webster Street? It was the location of the Cameo murders in 1949. I know about these murders but cannot find any info on the cinema. Thanks

Comment left by T Collings on 20th July, 2012 at 15:00
Re G. Braben's comment about Geoff Dowd I posted the original enquiry. Geoff and I were schoolfriends, who, after leaving Rose Lane Secondary School in 1955, were offered a job as cinema projectionist trainee ! Geoff took the job, I didn't. We lost touch. I'm not sure if he's still around.

Comment left by ray sheldon on 13th August, 2012 at 20:00
I was at the last show at the forum lime st. got it all on video from the projection room to the closing speech and the final curtain on casablanca. probably worth a fortune one day,like titanic"haha"

Comment left by arthur bunting on 13th September, 2012 at 18:01
Anyone out there got the details of the Clubmoor cinema, start date end date and a photo maybe

Comment left by JOHN WESTON on 11th October, 2012 at 23:19
Message is for Christina Condron RE: 9th May, 2012 , I worked in the Regent Crosby in aprox 1951. The chiefs name was Harry Procter. Wlly Schofield was the 2nd and Peter Glover was the 3rd. If any of these guys are still alive I sure would like to contact them?

Comment left by JOHN WESTON on 11th October, 2012 at 23:29
Hi, I left school at age 14 in 1947. My first job was as a 3rd. operator at the Cabbage Hall cinema. We used to swap the newsreel with the Rio,Fazakerly ??? It initiation into Show Biz which I never forgot, returning to it in 1960 in Television and feature films in Canada. I retired in 1991 as a TV Production manager. So very many wonderful memories and experences in those 32 years. THANKS Cabbage Hall. Cheers, John Weston Vancouver. BC. Canada.

Comment left by Laura Harrington on 14th October, 2012 at 13:31
@DAVID A ELLIS and to everyone who has shared so many wonderful memories...I am in the process of creating a documentary about the cinema industry in Liverpool. Looking for stories or any facts about any cinemas to work towards a 10 minute documentary. Please email me on L.Harrington@2010.ljmu.ac.uk if you would like to get involved! Thank you

Comment left by Glyn Griffiths on 15th October, 2012 at 16:42
In the 50's and and early 60's I was a projectionst in the Futurist, and Forum in Lime street, I also worked at the Victory in Walton Road

Comment left by Frank Smith on 14th November, 2012 at 17:08
I seem to remember a cinema in Cherry Avenue during my teenage years (the 1950's) and the name Regal rings a bell. The building is still there but the cinema not appear in the excellent book 'Picture Palaces of Liverpool'by Harold Ackroyd. Does anybody else remember this Picture Palace'? I would be interested to hear.

Comment left by Keith Rose on 29th November, 2012 at 21:20
Glyn Griffiths said that he worked at the Victory. I remember the first time that I went to the Minors Matinee at the Astoria. It was 29 July 1961, as I walked past the Victory another lad said that I should go in there as it was free on the last day. As my ma told me to go to the Azzy, I didn't, so I never saw the interior. After closing it was sold and quickly demolished. I am looking for a pic of the outside of it. I have an interior shot to trade.

Comment left by Rob Williams on 2nd January, 2013 at 13:33
Does anyone remember Bob Blanchard projectionist at the Lytton cinema, Lytton st, Everton He was there until its closure.

Comment left by Pricey on 16th January, 2013 at 20:15
I remember the Majestic at the top of London road in the mid 50s. We used to save our pocket money and go to the Maj' in the afternoon whenever a suitable film was showing, sometimes standing outside when an 'A' film was on, asking adult film goers to take us in. we only lived within yards of the Maj' in Cecil Street. I also used to go to the Hippodrome in West Derby road and the Lytton in Everton Valley for Saturday matinees. Fond memories.

Comment left by ray sheldon on 31st January, 2013 at 20:29
i wish these idiots would stop leaving comments about things that have nothing to do with cinema's

Comment left by ray sheldon on 4th February, 2013 at 14:02
nearly all of the genuine people on this site would'nt know what ugg boots are.And real knowledge is very easily obtained.you just simply use your brain.

Comment left by Theokie on 8th March, 2013 at 19:47
Can anyone remember there being a cinema is Williamson Square, or is my pal confusing Clayton Square with the location? Thanks.

Comment left by tercol on 11th March, 2013 at 16:41
In response to Theokie (8th March) As far as I can remember,there was no cinema in Williamson Square. However, The Liverpool News Theatre was in Clayton Square. This was similar to The Tatler, in Church Street. Showed newsreels, travelogues, cartoons, shorts of one kind or another. The News Theatre closed first, and the Tatler shortly afterwards I think, sometime in the late fifties.

Comment left by george graham on 30th March, 2013 at 14:34
In response to Frank Smith's query dated 14th Nov 2012,the picture house in Cherry Avenue was called the Victoria.I only went there the once and that was in about 1945,that was a visit with the school.The film that was showing at the time was called,Lassie Come Home.

Comment left by John Love on 23rd July, 2013 at 12:22
Going back to last year Peter asks about the Cameo Cinema. When I was with CMA Ltd I did relief management at the Cameo. It was original a converted Church it opened on 4th march 1928 by Bedford Cinemas. In 1928 it was taken over by General Theatre Corporation (GTC - Gaumont British)as the New Cameo Picture House.Then by Rank CMA.The odd thing was, that the entrance to cinema was at the screen end. The manager was murdered(shot)by a gunman only getting £50 for his trouble. Converted for cinemascope in1955, being a small screen the masking only dropped from the top. Closed in January 1957. Unused for some years and and demolished for housing

Comment left by Frank Smith on 29th August, 2013 at 18:44
Thank you George Graham and congratulations on your memory, this had been nagging at me for some time.

Comment left by john on 1st December, 2013 at 18:41
great book ,childhood memories of Wizard of Oz at the odeon ,london road before it was modernised with its cast iron staircase and curtains.

Comment left by john on 1st December, 2013 at 19:01
only one problem with comments in the book 1977 Star wars was on at the Odeon ,London road not Forum/abc lime street ,i had to queue for two days to see movie.

Comment left by Ed Vaughan on 11th December, 2013 at 6:50
I am 82 , from Liverpool, now living in Sussex . Peter , who wrote in July 2012 , or anyone else ??? please email me. Firstly pick up the data about the Cameo cinema history in earlier comment by another contributor. When the famous murder case took place , I lived in Huyton . Accused A. was hanged . Accused B. did time after following instruction from Balmer the detective. . thus escaping the noose! Neither man had ever met prior to their remand in Walton. They were both 'fitted up' by Balmer. Read any of the several books since in print. Also, see TV documentaries. Brother of Accused A.with same surnname could be seen escaping from a chained sack on bombed site in Liverpool for years. Accused B. was a merchant seaman who married the lady from the house around the corner to my road , and lived there. Eventually (alas; too late for Accused A.) the truth came out. It all made crime history as a great miscarriage of justice. The last time I saw Balmer , he was giving a talk on home security at Oakale Congregational church in Liverpool. I hoped in vain for something about the Cameo . Balmer died before the truth came out . So did the real murderer !

Comment left by Ed Vaughan on 11th December, 2013 at 7:05
Two Corrections to my comment as follows . . . My email address is vaughaneddie@ymail.com, for Oakale, please read Oakvale. Ed .

Comment left by Adrian Rose on 28th December, 2013 at 20:43
Also in reply to John Paul Purnells question. There are no organs left in cinemas in merseyside. Liverpool had organs at the following. Rialto-Compton removed broken up. Paramount Odeon-Compton removed to Bolton. Trocadero-Wurlitzer removed to Gaumont Dingle. Gaumont Dingle-Wurlitzer removed to manchester. Plaza Allerton-Wurlitzer removed and broken up. Carlton Tuebrook-Christie removed and now at Gordon Craig theatre Stevenage. Regent Old Swan-removed and broken up. Plaza Crosby-removed to private house at Belper Derbyshire. Forum -console definately removed and Hammond put in its place BUT the pipework is rumoured to still be in the chambers on the roof. Pretty much all the Birkenhead organs were broken up like the Ritz,Plaza,and the Rialto Bebington survives as part of a larger organ.

Comment left by Frank Smith on 9th January, 2014 at 14:19
With reference to cinema organs I feel pretty sure the Mayfair Cinema Aigburth had an organ and I can remember seeing last hearing it when I went to see Nickolas and Alexandra there in about 1971.

Comment left by terry on 19th January, 2014 at 16:28
In reply to Frank Smith, ref. Cinema Organs.....Yes, the Mayfair had an organ tho, I don't remember when it was removed, Our family lived nearby, and we used to visit every week. This played before the screenings began.

Comment left by Ste.H. on 2nd March, 2014 at 16:22
could anybody help me find info on the Garrick cinema on westminister road e.g. date of constuction and demolition.

Comment left by chris on 23rd March, 2014 at 22:35
Anyone remember 1960s Scala Lime street 1960s Miss Carbutt and another lady who supervised usherettes Jody Jill Singh Maureen Hankinson Christine Nolan ? Anyone rember late 60s Scala Lime Street Mr WALKER mANAGER mISS Garbutt supervisor, Jill Singh Maureen Hankinson Jody from Wrexham Christine Nolan usheretts

Comment left by ray sheldon on 29th April, 2014 at 13:06
My twin brother Steve died in nov last year in Perth Scotland, For those who remember him from the jacey clayton square and the abbey cinerama.at wavetree.

Comment left by Frank Smith on 7th June, 2014 at 14:29
In answer to Ste. H (2nd March 2014) Harold Ackroyd's 'Picture Palaces of Liverpool' gives the opening date of the Garrick as on/about Jan. 7th 1916. It had a capacity of 1,500 and was one of the first to present talking pictures on April 8th 1929.Date of closure is given as March 14th 1959. No date is given for its demolition. Will help with more details if required.

Comment left by les braben on 24th July, 2014 at 8:09
does anyone know what became of CHARLIE SEAMAN OR GEOFF DOWD both from the gaumont dingle 1950's I think charlie went on to become manager at the Hippodrome.

Comment left by joe on 29th August, 2014 at 15:35
Any body remember the OLD SWAN picture house I'm Mill Lane L13.I can remember paying with JAM JARS instead of money Did any other cinimas do this.The most you could pay was 6 old pennies.

Comment left by sue chapman on 22nd October, 2014 at 17:07
My dad Don Chapman would like to hear from Brian O`Gara, Johnny Freeley or Harry O`Brien to reminisce about the good old cinema days

Comment left by don chapman on 22nd October, 2014 at 18:59
Anyone remember the film ICE COLD IN ALEX on at the forum cinema. As it was a film based in the dessert, the manager had the bright idea to turn the heating up in the cinema whilst people watched it, so it became very realistic for them, but the cinema sold lots of ice creams and cold drinks!!

Comment left by don chapman on 22nd October, 2014 at 19:08
Another one going back maybe in the 60`s was THE HAUNTED HOUSE ON THE HILL shown at a cinema in St. Helens.Spooky film of 2 men fighting near to a bath of acid, 1 fell in, the skin was seen leaving the body, the skeleton started rising from the bath going towards the other man, as the skeleton was getting towards the edge of the screen a life sized skeleton appeared from the side of the screen looming over the audience suspended from wires in the ceiling. Think the exit doors were opened pretty quick for customers to run out.

Comment left by Christine Nolan on 29th November, 2014 at 20:22
I worked as an usherette at the Scala 60s.Would love to contact JIll Maureen and Jody and anyone else who remembers us.I have some happy memories of those times

Comment left by Christine Nolan on 29th November, 2014 at 20:44
I worked as assistant manager at the tatler Church St 1972/3 manager Margaret Burton. chief Jim Teasdale Denis Jones Jimmy Corkhill.Can picture the doormen,one was an irish man proper gentleman Happy memories

Comment left by Brian Ledson on 7th December, 2014 at 12:37
Adrian Rose in his list of organs in Liverpool cinemas mentioned The Regent Old Swan, was this referring to Old or New Regent? Amongst the family there is a discussion as to whether The New Regent had an organ, I seem to recall an organ being played there during the interval in the 50's soon after restoration, can anybody confirm so or otherwise so family unity can be restored!!!

Comment left by Terry on 14th December, 2014 at 16:28
Anyone remember the Palais De Luxe on Lime Street.This was three tired...with stone seats on the top balcony ! I recall seeing O'Rourke Of The Royal Mounted, with Alan Ladd, there. This cinema closed some time before the others on Lime Street !!

Comment left by Vera on 31st January, 2015 at 21:15
Cinema on Cherry Avenue was called the "Victoria"

Comment left by Vera on 31st January, 2015 at 21:35
Frank Smith. The "Regal Cinema" was in Broadway Norris Green. I now see someone had already answered your question about the "Victoria" Cherry Avenue.

Comment left by steve on 10th May, 2015 at 18:36
Hi, looking for any photo,s of the Cabbage Hall picture house, Lower Breck Rd Liverpool.Now used as LFC supporters club, thanks

Comment left by Frank Smith on 9th June, 2015 at 15:48
Hello Steve (10th May 2015) Harlod Ackroyd's book on the Picture Paleaces of Liverpool does not include a picture of the Cabbage Hall Cinema, probably because, by the time of publication (2002) the building had changed appreciably from its original appearance as a cinema. If you Google in Cabbage Hall Cimena Liverpool ther is a picture on Wikepedia of the building in its present form as the Liverpool F. C. Supportor's club. The new entrance conceals most of the original fascia making the building well nigh unregnisable as the old Cabbage Hall Cinema.

Comment left by Avril Jones on 13th June, 2015 at 21:57
My first job was for a Leslie Blond & Associates in Hope Street, Liverpool. He owned various cinemas in the Liverpool Area and he at one stage bought the Everyman Theatre. I remember going in there at the time, I was only 16 so it would have been 1959. It was full of rats and scared the life out of me. I cannot remember the other cinemas he owned but there were about ten of them and my job was to pick the stills to go outside the cinemas each week and order the films

Comment left by steve on 5th August, 2015 at 19:27
thanks frank, yes my grandmother worked there on the box office and ice cream lady.We only lived afew hundred yards away. I did find a pic that just about shows the front as was. If you want itn email me

Comment left by Pam on 11th November, 2015 at 22:17
Can anyone tell me if the film 'Love Story' was shown in any of the Liverpool picture houses please?

Comment left by David A Ellis on 26th February, 2016 at 18:27
Yes, Love Story was shown at the Futurist

Comment left by j f clark on 11th May, 2016 at 5:19
my mum managed a couple of cinemas 1939 on anyone interested ???y