A Walking, Talking Tour of the UK’s Oldest Working Cinema

Since opening its doors on 27^th December 1909, The Electric Cinema has been welcoming audiences for over 120 years.  Its story charts the entire history of cinema, taking in the silent era, it’s time as a news theatre, then cartoons, arthouse and continental titles, and even catering to the adult market during the 1970/80s. Since the 1990s, our fully independent cinema has exhibited an exciting mix of mainstream and non-mainstream movies, partnering with filmmakers, festivals, arts organisations and many others across the region and beyond, cementing its place as a Birmingham institution. Rising from the threat of permanent closure post-covid, The Electric re-opened its doors in January 2022, under new owners with over 50 years in independent cinema to their name. They are delighted to continue its story.

This is a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes at The Electric and visit the places the public never sees.  The tour will take in the Screen One projection room, running both digital and 35mm; the original proscenium arch; the basement, full of memorabilia from the cinema’s past; Screen Two; the original projection room, and will end outside, at the Tatler Ghost Sign (weather permitting).  The tour will also include a screening of one of the first films ever to be seen at The Electric.

Accompanying you will be our knowledgeable guide, who will tell you tales about the cinema’s history, it’s workings and be on hand to answer all your questions.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Additional information

Pre-booking is essential as we anticipate that this event will be very popular. Tickets are non-refundable.

The building is old, with lots of narrow stairs and no lift access. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues.

Do wear comfortable footwear and be advised you may visit confined spaces with uneven floors.

The Electric’s rich and diverse history includes a period as an adult cinema and the tour will reflect this. Advisory age for the tour is 15+.

The tour starts promptly on time so please arrive in time. The tour will last approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Organised by The Electric Cinema