Playhouse Cinema

In the village of Llanhilloth, between Ebbw Vale and Crumlin in Blaenau Gwent, work began on the site of the Playhouse in 1910. Solid rock had to be blasted with explosives, and it was assumed that the building’s firm foundations would last forever.

When the Playhouse (which was originally going to be called The Hippodrome) opened in 1914 it was as a live venue, hosting touring theatrical and variety companies alongside events such as concerts by local schoolchildren and the Illtyd Opera Society, which was based in the village. The stage was 24ft wide and 48ft deep. The Playhouse was owned and managed by M. W. Gorman.

Silent films had been screened at the Workmen’s Institute. However, when the talkies arrived, the Playhouse became a full-time cinema.

In 1944 it was acquired by Llanhilleth Miners' Institute for £4,000.

However, audiences began to decline into the 1950’s. Bingo was introduced, but without success. Vandalism by rowdy youths also became a problem - so much so that, in early April 1961, the proprietor, John Roberts, announced that the Playhouse would be closing down.

In response, a reported 500 children, carrying banners saying “Please keep our Saturday pictures”, marched to the cinema. Mr Roberts treated them to a free show, then said that, having seen “a little improvement” in the conduct of the teenagers, he would give the cinema another go.

Sadly, it was soon discovered that the apparently solid foundations were being weakened by the coal seams underneath the building. It is not known when the Playhouse Cinema closed, but the building was demolished in March 1968.

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