Ritz Cinema

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Uploaded on: February 10, 2023

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Photograph of opening of the Ritz cinema Luton exterior October 1937 built behind Luton Civic Hall and offices. The modern frontage being 175ft in length faced with hand made bricks and stone dressings, the three windows also surrounded by stone above main entrance over which is a carved stone panel. The remainder of the elevation was broken up by vertical stone fins, adding interest and strength to an otherwise blank wall. Entrance surround being finished with marble Roman stone. The main building contractor was Parker Construction Company Ltd., with additions by Art Marbles, Stone and Mosaic Co, Malden. Architect Leslie H. Kemp, A.R.I.B.A., F.I.A.A., A.I.Struct.E., was responsible for the original tri cinema contract for Union Cinemas namely Ritz Dunstable opened 27th September 1937, Ritz Luton opened 11th October 1937 and Ritz Hereford opened 10th January 1938. The above three cinemas were taken over by Associated British Cinemas Ltd., before their completion upon which Leslie Kemp became Director of Construction for A.B.C until all works were finalised and completed.

Ron Knee