40-50 High Street (Leicester)

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History - The Arcadia Electric Theatre, Leicester's first purpose-built cinema, was designed by the Birmingham architects Ward and Bell. During its 65 years as a cinema it has had various names: The Arcadia Electric Theatre (1910-15), Imperial Playhouse (1915-22), High Street Theatre (1922-31), Arcadia (1931-49), Cameo Continental (1949-68) and finally Cameo Classic (1968-1975).
The cinema, which had a seating capacity of 700, was the last in the town to remain silent; it not being until 1931 that it finally gave way to the demand for 'talkies'. Although it has long since ceased to serve its original purpose the exuberant Baroque entrance façade remains; as does the splendid decorative pediment and globe.

The Arcadia Electric Theatre building is part of a larger property whose address is 40-50 High Street.

40-50 High Street
Leicester
Leicestershire
LE1 5YN