A Brief History of The Regal
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The Regal has been a beloved part of Wymondham's community for over a century.
Films were shown at a cinema on Town Green from as early as 1917. In 1936, local businessman Douglas Bostock acquired land off Friarscroft Lane to create a purpose-built cinema.
The Regal officially opened it's doors in 1937, screening Swing Time with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers as it's debut film. Bostock promised to bring top quality entertainment to the town, on par with major cinema chains of the day.
Films were shown at a cinema on Town Green from as early as 1917. In 1936, local businessman Douglas Bostock acquired land off Friarscroft Lane to create a purpose-built cinema.
The Regal officially opened it's doors in 1937, screening Swing Time with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers as it's debut film. Bostock promised to bring top quality entertainment to the town, on par with major cinema chains of the day.
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Throughout World War II, the cinema played a vital role in lifting local spirits. But by the 1960's and 70's, television and competition from larger venues in Norwich took their toll. The Regal faced closure in 1962, and again in 1976. It saw a revival in 1965 under Roy Dashwood, and again in 1977 when Wymondham and District Ex-Services Club stepped in with Bert Caley and Les King, who started as a doorman and eventually took on management.
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The Regal finally closed it's doors as a cinema in 1993, but it's spirit lived on through passionate supporters such as former projectionist Michael Armstrong and historian Philip Yaxley, who formed The Regal Experience group in 2000, showing monthly classic films.
Today, The Regal Cinema has been revived by committee member Ady Mothersole and the Cinema Sub-Committee who are once again providing the silver screen experience with classic films. The building hosts regular live music events, darts tournaments, charity tea afternoons and beer festivals - and is available to hire for private functions. |
