Tyneside Cinema Pilgrim Street Newcastle Upon Tyne

Hey there, cinema buffs! Let's chat about this little gem in Newcastle Upon Tyne, the Tyneside Cinema on Pilgrim Street.

First off, let's set the scene. Picture this: a bustling city, Newcastle Upon Tyne, with its iconic bridges and Geordie charm. Now, imagine you're wandering around, and suddenly, you stumble upon this quirky, art deco building. That's right, we're talking about the Tyneside Cinema.

Now, this isn't your average multiplex. Oh no, this place has got history, charm, and a story that'll make your cinema-loving heart flutter.

So, what's the deal with this place?

The Tyneside Cinema opened its doors way back in 1937, during the reign of King George VI. That's right, it's older than your grandma's favorite teacup! It was built by the great architect, Thomas W. S. Tait, who also designed the famous Tyneside Hippodrome.

But here's where it gets interesting. This cinema wasn't just a place to watch movies; it was a social hub. People would dress up in their finest, grab a bite at the café, and then head in for a night of entertainment. It was the place to be seen, if you know what I mean.

Alright, so it's old. But what makes it so special?

Well, for starters, it's one of the last surviving super cinemas in the UK. These weren't just cinemas, they were grand, opulent spaces designed to give the audience a real experience. And the Tyneside Cinema is a perfect example of that.

But here's where it gets quirky. The cinema has a unique feature - a 'crying room'. Yes, you heard it right. Back in the day, mums could take their babies into this soundproof room, where they could watch the movie through a one-way mirror. Talk about multitasking, huh?

And get this, the cinema has its own organ! That's right, a real, honest-to-goodness Wurlitzer organ. It used to play before every show, setting the mood for the movie. Sadly, it's not in use anymore, but it's still there, a silent sentinel of the cinema's past.

Okay, okay, I'm sold. But what can I see there now?

Great question! The Tyneside Cinema might be old, but it's not stuck in the past. It shows a mix of new releases, classics, and even live screenings of opera, theatre, and sports events. They've got a great café bar too, serving up delicious food and drinks.

And here's a fun fact for you. The cinema was even used as a location for the movie 'Get Carter' starring Michael Caine. So, you could be sitting in the very same seat as a Hollywood legend!

Sounds amazing! But is it just for film buffs?

Not at all! The Tyneside Cinema is all about community. They host events like sing-alongs, silent film screenings with live music, and even a film club. It's a place where you can enjoy a movie, have a great time, and meet some interesting people too.

So, next time you're in Newcastle Upon Tyne, do yourself a favor and pop into the Tyneside Cinema. It's not just a cinema, it's a piece of history, a community hub, and a whole lot of fun. Who knows, you might just fall in love with the place, just like I did.