The UK's oldest working cinema, The Electric Cinema in Birmingham, is facing closure, sparking a petition with over 15,000 signatures urging local leaders to find a new vision for the historic site. Built in 1909, the cinema shut its doors abruptly last week, prompting concerns about its future. Campaigners are even seeking to have the cinema registered as an Asset of Community Value to protect its heritage.
The closure has resonated deeply, with the Flatpack Film Festival, a long-time user of the cinema, mobilizing support for the petition. With a goal of 25,000 signatures, the petition will be presented to Birmingham City Council. The festival spokesperson emphasized that the closure is not a done deal and expressed optimism about saving the iconic venue.
The Electric Cinema, known for its art-deco frontage, features two screens showcasing a mix of 35mm films and digital screenings. It has a rich history, having started as a converted taxi rank and evolved to screen silent films with piano accompaniment in its early days. Over the years, it transitioned from showing adult movies in the 1970s to hosting mainstream and art house films.
Despite the uncertainty, plans for the site's future remain unclear. The focus is on developing an alternative vision for the renewal of Station Street, where the cinema is located. The community's strong response highlights the significance of The Electric Cinema as more than just a place for watching movies. The outcome will be keenly awaited, with a full council meeting scheduled to discuss the issue.
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