Leeds' Hyde Park Picture House is reopening its doors this month following a major makeover.
Over £2million has been spent on restoring the 109-year-old building in Brudenell Lane. It is the last remaining gas-lit cinema in the UK and thought to be last in the world, the National Lottery Fund said. It will officially open its doors on Friday, June 30.
The cinema has seen several changes since it opened in 1914, but this year's changes are the biggest yet. The two-year restoration project, backed up by the National Hertiagate Fund, Leeds City Council and the Garfield Weston Foundation, has also included installing a brand-new, 50-seat, second screen, located in the cinema's basement.
Read more: Meet the hip Leeds café owner who swears like a trooper but makes amazing coffee
On opening night, film lovers can see the new Wes Anderson feature Asteroid City. Other events include the launch of Tuesday Wonders, a strand dedicated to documentaries, on Tuesday, July 4.
Announcing the news, a spokesperson for Hyde Park Picture House said: "The wait is finally over! We're delighted to announce we'll be reopening from Friday 30th June. After three long years of closure, we’re incredibly excited to announce that the Picture House will be officially reopening its doors on Friday June 30, following the completion of our major redevelopment project.
"We'll be reopening with a summer-long celebration of special screenings and live events, as we extend a massive thank you to our amazing audience, partners and funders for your incredible support. As part of our reopening programme, we'll be running a series of launch events for each of our new and returning strands, as well as special Q&As, sponsors events and preview screenings – giving everyone an opportunity to be part of this special period in the cinema’s history."
Want the latest food, drink, events and shopping news? Sign up to the Best in Leeds newsletter
On Twitter, The National Lottery Fund said: "Yay! We can't wait for the reopening, and are delighted to be supporting @HydeParkPH, thanks to #NationalLottery players." Fans of the venue and residents shared their excitement too.
@clov_a said: "Congrats!! Can’t wait to go back to the Picture House." @bryony_jameson added "Cannot wait to visit you!"
Beth Durant said: "So excited. Are the seat plaques in place? Keen to see mine." "We can’t wait for this," Leeds Civic Trust said.
Read next:
