Agricultural Hall Cinema
2 St. George's Parade,
Wolverhampton,
WV2 1BA
2 St. George's Parade,
Wolverhampton,
WV2 1BA
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Additional Info
Previously operated by: Gaumont-British Picture Corp., Ltd.
Architects: Edward Albert Stone
Firms: Norfolk & Pryor
Styles: Neo-Classical
Previous Names: Agricultural Hall
Nearby Theaters
The Agricultural Hall was built in 1863, on what was then known as Snow Hill, in the centre of Wolverhampton. From the early-1900’s, Cinematograph shows were held in the building.
In September 1913, it was converted into a full-time cinema to the plans of architectural firm Norfolk & Pryor of Catford, London. Seating was provided for 1,248, all on a single floor. It was equipped with a ‘straight’ organ to accompany the silent films. By 1919 it was operated by Associated Provincial Picture Houses(APPH).
APPH were taken over by the Gaumont British Theatres chain in February 1929, and the Agricultural Hall Cinema became the first in Wolverhampton to be equipped to screen ‘talkies’ when Al Jolson in “The Singing Fool” was screened on August 12, 1929. It was closed on 19th September 1931, and was demolished to build the magnificent Gaumont Palace Cinema on the site.
Contributed by
Ken Roe
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