Curzon Cinema

http://www.curzonmanchester.co.uk/

The New Curzon Cinema is not listed in the Kine' Yearbook 1940 edition (published 1939), but is listed in the 1944 edition. It could be the cinema was built in 1939 and allowed to open in 1940 after the outbreak of war.

It is listed as being in Flixton, Lancashire, the area today has been expanded to be part of the district of Urmston, Greater Manchester.

I have information that the Curzon Cinema opened in December 1936. It had a 20feet deep stage, a proscenium opening of 45 feet and 3 dressing rooms. Operated as an independent it was taken over by G.B. Snape Circuit in the mid-1950's.

In the 1960's it was altered to become a twin screen cinema and a Bingo Hall. The two screens were name Major (400 seats) and Minor (134 seats).

Two photographs of the Curzon here:-

Exterior:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/12494104@N00/214954187/

Interior (main screen in former circle) :
http://www.flickr.com/photos/12494104@N00/214954185/

Here is a recent close-up view of the Curzon.

The Curzon was built by Ernest Nash-Eaton. He was responsible for around a dozen cinemas around Manchester for the period.
My quest is to find out, or confirm, that this cinema had a Theater Organ at one time.

It is repeatedly suggested that this cinema is not doing too well. Local websites suggest that the lease is up for sale. The building requires much in the way of maintenance and declining patronage is make life difficult all round. Any interest to alleviate this would be welcomed.

The Curzon has just been granted lottery funds to aid its preservation. As this is the last cinema of three in the district, it comes as great news.

Good news - does this involve refurbishing / enhancing the Curzon, or just subsidising running costs?

From what I have been told the money is to be spent on the cinema itself. Due to a lot of local publicity the number of people visiting the cinema has increased but it created an increase in the complaints about the condition of the building. With brand new opposition from Trafford cinemas, the factor of general comfort becomes a priority on the list. The quality of the films shown is high but if the place is grubby patrons will avoid it. Now it is hoped the repairs will correct this.

Sad to say that the deal with the Lottery money fell apart. The Curzon closes on September 5th 2008. They have a couple of offers for the place but nothing confirmed.

This is a 2008 photo.