Windmill (Great Yarmouth)

• Theatre ID
  1005
• Built / Converted
  1911
• Current state
  Extant
• Current use
  converted to other use (Waxworks exhibition)
• Address
  Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, England

Details

A cinéariety similar in scale to the Empire and of similar architectural ambition. Terra cotta front in three bays, the outer bays slightly advanced as towers in three stages with generous ornament. Modillioned cornice below the top stages, which are crowned by square ogee domes with fish scale copper covering and globe finials. The gabled centre has a balcony at second floor with a rotating illuminated windmill feature. The present small cinema is the original theatre balcony, and today has a somewhat oppressive atmosphere. The front of the balcony was walled up and is fronted by the screen. The stalls area of the building has been rendered almost unrecognisable by the installation of a semi pemanent exhibition which occupies more than one level but has been installed in such a way that everything could be removed. The auditorium had heavily enriched ceiling ribs and walls with medallions supported by cherubs. Most of this ornament survives, although partly obscured. The proscenium arch is original, and on either side are the rectangular frames which displayed the illuminated numbers during a variety bill. There was never a fly tower but dressing rooms can still be seen under the stage.

---

Hide further details

• Events
  • Use:
  • 1911 Design/Construction:
    • A S Hewitt - Architect
  • 1972 Owner/Management: Jay’s Entertainments
• Capacities
  • Later: 1972: 892
• Listings
  • Grade II
• Stage type
  • Rake c. 1:10
• Dimensions
  • Building dimensions: c.45ft wide x 180ft deep
  • Stage dimensions: Depth: 20ft Width: 35ft
  • Proscenium width: 25ft
  • Orchestra pit: Original 15