The Grosvenor Picture Palace, Oxford Road
1 sound
Operating between May 1915 - May 1968, the Grosvenor Picture Palace could accommodate up to 1100 seated patrons at peak times. As one of the most popular cinemas of the period, the pictures were of a high standard, while the music was of the best quality. When live music was needed to accompany the playing films, members of the Halle made up the orchestra.
Designed by Percy Hothersall, the building has now been designated Grade II listed by English Heritage. It is still a popular venue now in its new incarnation as the Footage pub. The venue has been serving the student population of Manchester since the 1990s.
Wynn Knott recalls her time as one of Manchester’s first female projectionist. She details some of her work including preparing reels for each use, ensuring news reels are delivered on time for daily news and making sure the paperwork for music rights was completed.
Image: Grosvenor Street, corner with Oxford Road, Chorlton-on-Medlock, c.1947 Ref: m19270
