London can boast of a rich cultural and social life. Every day, it holds many interesting events related to fine, visual and cinematography art. The latter plays a rather important role in the development of the city. There are a lot of cinemas in London. Here, you can find modern ones with unusual ideas and goals as well as cinemas with a rich history. Their histories are very versatile, but no obstacles could stand in the way of the art development. The Ritzy Cinema is one of the most popular cinemas not only in London but also in the world. Thus, it’s interesting to learn about its difficult and at the same time eventful path to success. Learn more at london-trend.
AN INTERESTING HISTORY OF THE CINEMA DEVELOPMENT
The history of this cinema began on March 11, 1911. On that day, the Electric Pavilion was opened and it looked the same as the modern Ritzy Cinema. At first, it didn’t gain outstanding fame, but on the contrary, it was considered worse than many existing cinemas at that time. It even got a special nickname, the flea pit. The main hall could accommodate about 750 visitors. The building housed an organ, a mandatory instrument of all such institutions of that time. Sound films began to be shown here in 1929. The London bombings during the Second World War turned out to be extremely difficult for the city cinemas. Some buildings were completely destroyed, and therefore, closed. However, despite all the difficulties, the Ritzy Cinema managed to survive those terrible events and even gain the desired popularity. The nearby Brixton Theatre was destroyed during another shelling in 1940. It allowed the Ritzy Cinema to expand and develop faster.
In 1954, the institution underwent restoration. Its exterior and interior were slightly changed and the organ was removed. In 1976, the cinema was closed and its building appeared on the verge of demolition. However, it was saved thanks to cooperation with Lambeth Council. The place was reopened under the rather modern name, the Little Bit Ritzy. In 1994, the Ritzy Cinema was added with four screens, a bar and a cafe. The last global renovations took place in 2009. As a result, its colour scheme and decor were restored and the cinema acquired a venue for live music.
MAIN FEATURES OF THE RITZY CINEMA
The Ritzy Cinema offers visitors not only comfortable movie watching but also other options. For example, you can experience a calm and cosy atmosphere in a small restaurant on the lower floor. Here, visitors can taste simple dishes as well as a variety of drinks. Another interesting space is Upstairs at the Ritzy. It is a live events venue that is a well-known and beloved cultural hub in Brixton.
Nowadays, the Ritzy is one of the most popular cinemas in London. It is visited by both tourists and local connoisseurs of film art. Here, you can feel a special atmosphere. The main feature of the cinema is the appearance of its building. The incredible elements and interesting decoration in the Edwardian style will impress everyone and will remain in the memory for a long time. Moulding, rounded shapes and classical patterns will present you with a rough view of how luxurious the first cinemas looked. The main hall of the Ritzy Cinema is also beautiful and aesthetic. Some interior and exterior elements were specially preserved in their original appearance. Therefore, this cinema is so unique.
