Empire

A remarkably preserved ciné-theatre. The entrance and first floor foyers are remarkably complete examples of Art Deco work with original joinery, balustrading, fenestration and lettering. The stalls doors and the bar surrounds with geometrically patterned veneers, are in astonishingly untouched condition. In the auditorium there is an impressive array of Art Deco plaster decoration, notably around the two rectangular boxes and the balcony side access alcoves. The proscenium arch is angular with reeded motifs and the balcony front is adorned with Aztec-like plaques. Painted in orange picked out in chocolate and gold. The reduction of capacity is largely atributable to insertion of bingo tables, a bar and the management office all at the rear of the stalls seating. The seating is otherwise original. Geometrical glazing bars to steel windows. A jewel of its time. Bingo and films in recent years.