ABC Cinema, Wakefield | Wakefield, United Kingdom

A Brief History of ABC Cinema

Located on the corner of Sun Lane and Kirkgate, the ABC Cinema in Wakefield, West Yorkshire is a captivating landmark that reflects the rich cultural heritage and artistic flair of the 20th century. Originally known as the Regal Cinema, it opened its doors to eager audiences on December 9, 1935, designed by the in-house architect William R. Glen for Associated British Cinemas.

Architectural Excellence

This cinema is a fine example of the Art Deco style, a popular architectural movement renowned for its sleek lines and decorative details. Although smaller than many later ABC houses, seating 1,594 people, the Regal was equipped with a stage 26 feet (7.9 m) deep behind the proscenium, measuring 43 feet (13 m) wide. Its design also featured a rather simpler interior with concealed lighting under the balcony, enhancing the viewing experience.

A Venue for Major Cultural Events

In its heyday, the cinema was not only a place for watching the latest films but also hosted live performances. Among its most famous events was a performance by The Beatles on February 7, 1963, as part of the Helen Shapiro Winter Tour. This performance occurred just days before they recorded their first album, Please Please Me, marking an essential moment in music history.

Transformations Through Time

After its renaming to ABC in 1962, the cinema underwent significant changes in 1976 when it was divided into three separate screens, allowing for a wider range of films to be shown simultaneously. However, the rise of multiplex cinemas in the local area, notably the opening of a Cineworld in 1996, contributed to its eventual closure in 1997.

The building fell into a state of dereliction, yet many plans for its redevelopment emerged over the years. Initial proposals included converting the site into 119 residential flats and shops, although these plans were not realized.

The Final Chapter

In 2020, Wakefield Council acquired the site and announced plans for its demolition to transform the area into a temporary green space. Demolition began in March 2022, and the cinema's exterior was finally dismantled by May 2023. Sadly, this marks the end of its storied history as a key player in Wakefield's cultural landscape.

Visiting Wakefield and ABC Cinema

Though the ABC Cinema no longer stands, it remains a part of Wakefield's rich tapestry of historical landmarks. Visitors exploring the city can delve into the various cultural sites that surround it. Wakefield, known for its vibrant history, offers a range of activities that reflect its heritage.

If you want to explore more of Wakefield’s historical offerings, consider joining a self-guided tour through the city. With the AllTours app, you can navigate beyond just ABC Cinema and discover other historical buildings and cultural monuments at your own pace.

Key Takeaways

• ABC Cinema opened in 1935 and has a rich history featuring performances by The Beatles.
• The cinema was originally known as the Regal Cinema and is a perfect example of Art Deco architecture.
• Despite various redevelopment attempts, the site has now been converted into a temporary green space.

"The ABC Cinema represented a crucial chapter in Wakefield's cultural heritage, showcasing films and live performances that echoed through history."

While the victory of modern development can sometimes overshadow the past, the stories of landmarks like ABC Cinema provide invaluable insights into Wakefield’s journey. To explore more sites like this, check out the Wakefield's Whispering Walls: An Echo of History Tour.