I recently unearthed an old negative which was in very good condition. I made a high resolution scan of it and it turned out to be a picture of the Plaza Cinema Coalbrookdale. Outside the entrance there were two people one being my wife's Uncle Alan Stewart the other unknown. On a sign to the right of the entrance were the words :---" Grand opening Monday at 6.00pm by his worship the Mayor of Wenlock " The films to be shown under the words Grand opening August 31st were " WHOOPEE " all talking starring EDDIE CANTOR. and the backup film was " ALMOST A HONEYMOON " all talking starring DODO WATTS,DONALD CALTHORPE and CLIFFORD MOLLISON.
There is a lovely saloon car parked along the front registration No. FL. 8588. Alan Stewart was involved with a number of cinemas at this time including one at the old Police station Ironbridge, The Regal in Hadley, one called the Ranch house Plough Rd Wrockwardine Wood. This he turned into a swimming bath. He was involved with The Cosy, Dawley and also The Royal in Dawley. He was also the Landlord of The Queens Head Dawley and many years later The Bush in St Georges. He married the one of the daughters of George and Rose Brown who I mentioned in a previous thread.
If anyone remembers any of these cinemas it would be nice to learn a little more about them.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/80101438@N04/7614748098/
Robert Hanley.
This document on ironbridge.co.uk website refers to the Plaza being open from 1933-1959. I will ask my Father as he grew up in the area - see if there is any other information/stories he may have.
However, I'm sure Ironbridge Museum or Broseley Local History Society can help with some more info.
http://www.ironbridge.co.uk/downloads/TheVictoriansLeisure.pdf
P.S. Beautiful photo to have in your collection.
Michael's 'aside' got me delving enthusiastically through some old motoring stuff. Although a bit before my time, the car is I think a Morris Cowley "flatnose" saloon (1548cc side-valve four cylinder). This model was produced between about 1926 to 1931. I agree, a lovely image!
David
I have since learnt that The Plaza opened on August 31, 1931 and this is taken from a cutting in the local paper.
OPENING OF THE PLAZA CINEMA.----The plaza Theatre at Dale end, which has a seating capacity of 500, was formerly opened by the Mayor of Wenlock ( Mr O. D. Murphy ) on Monday. In a short speech the Mayor congratulated the owners on their enterprise, and wished the venture every success.
Robert.
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Hello Robert
Just as an aside, the car you mention was registered at Peterborough in 1930 (late January or early February) if that provides any clues.
Mike