The Royalty Cinema, Harborne - July 2013

The impressive auditorium space, sadly it's looking a little worse for wear at present.

A great explore of a great building, really nice to see the art deco interior in such great condition for the most part and some lovely windows throughout.

Located in the Harborne district of southwest Birmingham, at the corner of High Street and Greenfield Road. The Royalty Cinema was opened on 20th October 1930 with Maurice Chevalier in "The Love Parade". It was built for and operated by the local independent Selly Oak Pictures Ltd.

The Royalty Cinema was taken over by the Associated British Cinemas(ABC) chain in March 1935. ABC closed the cinema on 2nd November 1963 with Cliff Robertson in "P.T.109". It was converted into a Mecca Bingo Club, and in 2010 it is operating as a Gala Bingo Club.

How it looked during it's use as a bingo club.

In the summer of 2011, the Royalty Cinema was designated a Grade II Listed building by English Heritage.

The circle. Towards the back of the circle, you can just make out the sign for the rear toilets. This cinema features numerous art deco motifs. No smoking! Many of the original features still remain. The majority of the glazing to the front features ornate stained glass elements. A fire place with classic art deco styling. One of the many stair cases. Long ago this would of been the projection room. The bar. Walking around this cinema involves going up and down a lot. The garish reception. Before the horrendous suspended ceiling was put in there was an atrium through to the floor above. More stairs! As mentioned previously, this would of overlooked the reception below. The managers office. The cinema is built side on to the High Street so you enter from the side of the auditorium. Looking backward from the stage, the flooring has been removed. However a lot of ornate detail remains.

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