Live talk
Cinemas of Hastings
Discover the stories behind Hastings' plethora of movie theatres from yesteryear.
Director: n/A
Cast includes: N/A
Illustrated Talk
70 mins including Interval
This illustrated talk by Ken Brooks will look at the history of local cinemas from the 1900s to the 1970s. Most cinemas began as converted concert halls, and by the 1930s purpose-built ‘picture houses’ had sound equipment for the first ‘talkies’. These included the Ritz and the Regal in the Hastings area
As well as providing Saturday morning film shows for children (ABC Minors) they also presented live appearances by famous entertainers. By the 1940s there were eight cinemas in the local area, but sadly the increasing popularity of television and rising costs eventually led to their closure.
Ken has been a very keen cinema enthusiast for many years. He has written and produced two books on local history ‘Hastings Then and Now’ and ‘Around Hastings.’
Thursday 11am screenings: all seats just £5, including a free cuppa with your ticket.
Thursday night specials: Dinner and a film
Enjoy delicious Moroccan cuisine at Café Maroc from 6pm, followed by a movie treat. Booking required.
