Pioneer Theatre

26 Northgate,
Dewsbury, WF13 1DX

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ArtDirector
ArtDirector on November 24, 2023 at 9:37 pm

This building have been converted for use as a college. THis wil preserve the building. The last theatrical use was by the Dewsbury Operatic Society. The projection room was under the clock tower to the audience’s left and a special lens system had to be used to correct the keystone effect.

Ian
Ian on April 1, 2021 at 4:44 pm

Found the answer. The listing text is quite recent and contains a description of the interior.

https://britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/101300442-former-co-operative-society-building-pioneer-house-dewsbury-east-ward

“The second floor consists of a single massive space originally used as a concert/public hall and later converted for theatre and cinema use. A later stage, proscenium arch and balcony have all now been removed, and a large steel sub-structure with a mezzanine level has been inserted.”

Ian
Ian on April 1, 2021 at 4:33 pm

Interesting interior photo. This appears to be the top of the proscenium arch, but the decorated ceiling extends behind to the rear wall indicating that the room was converted to a theatre, and not part of the original design - perhaps starting as a multi-purpose or concert hall?

ArtDirector
ArtDirector on August 5, 2012 at 5:54 pm

I had the building “listed” while I was living is Dewsbury and won a Public Enquirey to have it preserved.

Ken Roe
Ken Roe on April 15, 2011 at 2:49 pm

A vintage drawing of the Pioneer Building and some additional history here:
View link
Urban Explorers have documented the building in 2008:
View link)