Remember it
Local author Ian Carroll has published a book containing a brief history of the building, photographs, and the collected memories and comments from the many people who got in touch with the campaign, as well as messages of support from further afield. It’s available on Amazon, and 50% of the royalties go to the Royal Cinema Trust, so you’re supporting our campaign when you buy this lovely book.
'I was really shocked to hear that the cinema could be demolished as there seems to be little thought given to its heritage and indeed its uniqueness. I know the cinema well as I spent a week in the building helping to remove the classic ‘Compton’ organ, which was taken for restoration and relocation. I truly love buildings such as this and indeed this cinema has a place in Plymouth’s history and in my opinion should be preserved and more made of its wonderful history. When places like this are destroyed they can never be replaced. I think Dudley Savage (who I had the pleasure of meeting) will be turning in his grave at what is being proposed…’
Rick Wakeman (Yes / Solo – Keyboards)
‘The Plymouth Theater began its life in the 1930’s. It is part of the history of cinema. It must be preserved for the future.’
John Carpenter (Director – ‘Halloween’, ‘The Thing’, ‘Escape From New York’)
‘Always sad when a building that is part of the cultural history of a city is replaced by a developer’s profit.’
John Cleese (Actor – Monty Python/Fawlty Towers)
‘This building is an important part of the city’s fabric. Now it’s use as a cinema is enjoyed by all. To be able to easily catch the bus into town and go to see a film is a bonus. Save this treasured building.’
Linda Davidson (Saltash, Cornwall)
‘It is the most amazing place, like walking back in time and being immersed in history - even when you go to see a modern movie.’
Ruth Mielek (Ivybridge, Devon)
‘This cinema means so much to so many of us, we don’t use the big modern cinemas as we like our small local cinema.’
Suzanne Edgar (Plymouth)
‘Basically it’s a lovely old building and I’m fed up with our old buildings being demolished and thrown away like rubbish! They are our history. Too many are being destroyed, so much so that we won’t have any left soon. Shame on the people who give permission to have them taken away from us instead of planning around them.’
Jennifer Hobbs (Plymouth)
‘I love this cinema, I go there every time a new kids movie comes out ‘cos my son cant go to The Vue because it’s too loud. So essentially when/if they take this place away my kids will never get to go to the cinema again!! Sad days.’
John Cooper (Plymouth)
‘This building brings art, culture and entertainment to those who maybe can’t afford a night out at a multiplex, in a beautiful, authentic setting. A huge part of my childhood, and should not be replaced by another bright, shiny (but sterile) new build.’
Ben Smart (Minehead)
‘I believe we should hold on to as many period buildings as possible in Plymouth. We have so little pre-war architecture it would be a shame to lose this Art Deco landmark. By all means repurpose it, but save the building!’
Caroline Coon (Plymouth)
‘Reel Cinema is my ‘go to’ place and represents a group of happy and cherished memories. It reminds me that the building has been loved by the people of Plymouth for such a long time. How does a city retain its identity if you remove its history.’
Public post on Facebook (name not supplied)
‘The old “Royal’ - been there many times for films, went with then girlfriend to see Cliff Richard and the Shadows with the supporting act as a young up-and-coming girl called Lulu, it was her 17th birthday, the screaming was unbelievable when Cliff was singing.’
Public post on Facebook (name not supplied)
‘It is an important part of my life to be honest. I’m sure we’ve all been there with best friends, relatives that have passed on and not to mention first dates at the ABC/Reel. When my sister and I were in the sixth form at school we would mitch off from double afternoon PE and go to the ABC.’