Strand Cinema auditorium
A view of the auditorium, from the balcony, showing the distinctive porthole lights c. 1935.
ABC tickets
Used in the Strand when it was part of the ABC (Associated British Cinemas) chain, between 1937 and 1977.
Strand Usherettes
This photo shows Eva Harland (centre) alongside fellow usherettes on the roof of the Strand, c.1950. The photo was kindly shared with the project by Eva’s son, Lawrence Harland. (c) Lawrence Harland
The Drifters at the Strand
The Drifters, pictured with Ronnie Rutherford and his family. The group performed two shows daily at the Strand on Friday 30 May and Saturday 31 May 1986. Ronnie later recalled: “we couldn't get the first show out […] They [attendees] were hiding everywhere to try and stay in the place. Because they were dancing in the foyer and all the rest of you know, it was unbelievable”
The Strand's auditorium as it would have looked in 1935.
Still of 3d video render created by Patrick Scott, 2022
ABC Minors club badges
Badges were collected by children who attended the ABC Minors Matinee Club at the Strand in the 40s, 50s and 60s. These brightly coloured badges were introduced in the mid 60s.
Sam Knox
Manager of the Strand 1970-75. © Alfred Knox
Mechanical Counter
Four mechanical counters - or ‘clickers’ - were required to manage the crowds that queued to get into the Strand when it reopened as a 4-screen multiplex in 1988.
The Nolan Sisters at the Strand
The Nolan Sisters, pictured in 1985 with Ronnie Rutherford and his son Lee.
Architectural Section of Strand Cinema
Detail of architectural drawing showing section of Strand Cinema, by John McBride Neill. Dated July 1935.
Strand Variety Theatre ad
An advertisement for the Strand Variety Theatre, May 1985
Screen 1 of the Strand, 2020.
Credit Danny Meegan
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