Rights Managed > Historic England > Architecture > Cinemas > Norman Walley Collection
Wurlitzer organ NWC01_01_2837
Filename: NWC01_01_2837.jpg
Size: 5551 x 3643 (2.9MB)
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
Wurlitzer organ NWC01_01_2837
Mecca Bingo Club, Kilburn High Road, Kilburn, Brent, Greater London. The Wurlitzer organ console in the auditorium of the Mecca Bingo Club.
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 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. The Wurlitzer organ was originally located on a revolving elevator to the right of the proscenium, and was relocated to the left of the proscenium during alterations to the auditorium
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24857716
© Historic England Archive
Cinema Interior Music Musical Instrument Theatre Keyboard Stops
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the magnificent Wurlitzer organ console in the auditorium of the Mecca Bingo Club, located on Kilburn High Road in Brent, Greater London. The club was once part of the iconic Gaumont State Theatre, which opened its doors in 1937 as one of Europe's largest cinemas and England's grandest with a seating capacity of 4,004. Over time, the building underwent various transformations including being divided into a dance hall, cinema, and bingo hall before becoming solely dedicated to bingo around 1990. However, in 2010 it found new life as a church. The Wurlitzer organ itself holds historical significance within this remarkable venue. Originally positioned on a revolving elevator to the right of the proscenium arch, it was later relocated to the left during alterations made to enhance the auditorium. This image captures not only an exquisite piece of musical history but also offers a glimpse into an era when cinema palaces were at their peak. The intricate keyboard and array of stops on this majestic instrument are testaments to both craftsmanship and artistry that have enchanted audiences for decades. Preserved by Norman Walley through his lens for Historic England, this photograph invites us to appreciate not only architectural beauty but also celebrates our rich cultural heritage intertwined with music and entertainment.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
