2001_000
2001_000
2001_000
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University of Leicester Archaeological Services<br />
1930s ‘super cinemas’ of the ABC chain in the region. The<br />
safety and comfort of the audience along with a desire to<br />
create an atmosphere of opulence and escapism as part of<br />
decoration in all public parts of the cinema has long since<br />
disappeared under later rather garish paintwork (see back<br />
cover), but the survey and documentary research has<br />
provided valuable information which will inform<br />
future restoration proposals.<br />
The project has proved to be most rewarding and<br />
has highlighted the importance of an integrated<br />
approach to the recording of historic structures, using<br />
evidence not only from original survey, but from<br />
documentary sources, such as newspaper reports,<br />
eyewitness accounts and original building plans.<br />
Above: the original cinema interior showing<br />
the organ in position (courtesy Allen Eyles).<br />
the picture-going experience was clearly at the forefront of<br />
the architect’s brief. Hence, the building is not only<br />
innovative in terms of architecture and interior decoration,<br />
but also in terms of provision for fire prevention, means of<br />
escape and environmental controls.<br />
Although some damage has occurred to the original façade<br />
and entrance hall, the main auditorium is largely intact, with<br />
its magnificent proscenium arch, balcony and concealed<br />
lighting, was regarded as one of the most remarkable<br />
features of the building at the time of closure. The illuminated<br />
console of the Compton organ would originally have risen<br />
from the centre of the stage. The organ not only produced<br />
a wide range of musical effects, but its lighting could also<br />
be made to change in harmony with the sounds. The original<br />
The mighty Compton Organ installed in this<br />
theatre embodies many new features.<br />
Possessing a natural quality of resonance,<br />
the Organ gives a wonderful impression of<br />
tone, since the notes of a melody literally<br />
melt in to eachother. By means of an<br />
amazingly clever system of lighting, the<br />
console yields a remarkable range and<br />
combination of colours.<br />
In this way the instrument gives a pleasing<br />
effect both to the ear and eye.<br />
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