The former Hollywood Cinema as seen from North Drive

Image: © Evelyn Simak Taken: 21 Sep 2019

This building was erected in 1875 and originally used as an aquarium, and later in the main hall for summer shows, pantomimes and roller skating. It underwent a rebuild by local architects Bottle & Olley in 1882 and re-opened in 1883, when it was used as a theatre. By 1914, it was screening films as part of the Variety programmes and by the 1920s had converted fully into a cinema (although still known as the Royal Aquarium) with a seating capacity of 1,500. A dining room at the rear of the building was converted into a live theatre, known as the Little Theatre, adding to the amenities. In January 1970, the Little Theatre was converted into the Little Cinema, and a disco opened in another space. In July 1982, the main hall was re-named Royalty Cinema and seating was now provided for 1,180, with the Little Cinema seating 264. On 7 February 2019 the Hollywood Cinemas circuit was put into administration and the Royalty Cinema, the only cinema in Great Yarmouth, was closed shortly after a revamp in late 2017 involving new seats and screens. However, posters by the entrance announce that it will be opening again "soon". Update: The cinema, which had been taken over by the Irish operator 'Arc' in June this year, will open its doors just in time before Christmas. The 2m cinema revamp will have a new heating system and 566 luxury leather armchair seats and all the screens have an alcohol licence. (Source Eastern Daily Press, 7 Nov 2019)

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