Rights Managed > Historic England > Architecture > Cinemas > Norman Walley Collection
Gaumont State Theatre NWC01_01_2829
Filename: NWC01_01_2829.jpg
Size: 3643 x 5551 (5.2MB)
Date: 29th April 2022
Source: Historic England
Credit: © Historic England Archive
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
Job Title: Photographer
© Historic England Archive
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Gaumont State Theatre NWC01_01_2829
Mecca Bingo Club, Kilburn High Road, Kilburn, Brent, Greater London. The Mecca Bingo Club and Kilburn High Road viewed from the north.
The Gaumont State Theatre was opened in 1937. It was one of the largest cinemas in Europe, and the largest in England, with a seating capacity of 4, 004. The exterior design is reputedly inspired by the Empire State Building in New York. The building was later divided into a dance hall, cinema and bingo hall, before being used solely as a bingo hall from around 1990. In 2010 the building reopened as a church
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24857728
© Historic England Archive
Cinema Films Movies Picture Palace Dance Hall
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the grandeur of the Gaumont State Theatre, formerly known as Mecca Bingo Club, located on Kilburn High Road in Brent, Greater London. The image showcases a view from the north, encompassing both the iconic theatre and bustling surroundings. Originally opened in 1937, the Gaumont State Theatre was an architectural marvel and one of Europe's largest cinemas at that time. With its impressive seating capacity of 4,004, it held the distinction of being England's largest cinema. Inspired by New York's Empire State Building, its exterior design exudes elegance and sophistication. Over time, this magnificent structure underwent various transformations to cater to changing entertainment trends. It was divided into a dance hall and cinema before eventually becoming solely a bingo hall around 1990. However, in 2010, this historic building found new life as it reopened its doors as a church. The print not only captures the physical beauty of this landmark but also serves as a visual testament to its rich history and cultural significance. From hosting movies and films to providing joyous moments during bingo games or lively dances in its heyday - each corner holds memories cherished by generations who frequented this picture palace. Norman Walley skillfully immortalizes this architectural gem through his lens while inviting viewers to appreciate both its past glory and present purpose with equal admiration.
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