Theatr Colwyn

overview

It was more than 126 years ago that the venue now known as Theatr Colwyn first opened its doors to the public.

Back in the 1880s, it was then called a Public Hall – as the stone plaque at the top of the building still testifies – but it’s uses were many, just as they are today – a place of entertainment, for discussions, dances and fundraising events.

We are pleased to announce that recent investigations in public archives revealed the venue is now the UK’s oldest operating cinema.

The first screenings took place in January, 1909, when the building was run by the entrepreneur Harry Reynolds.

Time, taste and technology have all taken giant leaps since then, but the venue and its small group of staff, volunteers and supporters, led by manager Phil Batty, still operate at the very heart of the community, as those in charge of the venue did all those years ago.