Cinema Then and Now

Contact Details:

73 Brudenell Road, Headingley, Leeds, LS6 1JD

01132752045

Leeds Inspired

Cinema Then and Now

14th April 2026

An intergenerational talk, designed for all ages, from our smallest audience members right up to the wisest. Join us for a fun and engaging talk to discover the stories behind the screen of the ‘cosiest’ cinema in Leeds alongside a very special screening from our friends at the Yorkshire and North East Film Archive.

Delve into the rich history of our grade II listed building with a fun and engaging talk about the only remaining gas-lit cinema in the country. Led by our Young Audience Officer, you’ll learn about the local history of early film, the beginnings of cinema over 100 years ago and find out the answers to some surprising questions –

When did an elephant visit the cinema?

Where is the secret escape route?

Why do we have a cabinet of old rubbish?

Accompanying our talk, we are very lucky to be working with the Yorkshire and North East Film Archive who have put together a specially curated programme of archive footage looking at the theme of childhood in Leeds.

This event is part of our Explore Festival across Leeds Heritage Theatres. Join us for a  playful programme of film, performance and hands-on activities this April. More details coming soon!