A HISTORIC independent cinema is set to raise the curtain on a £100,000 upgrade aimed at enhancing the experience it can offer movie fans.

The Playhouse Cinema in Louth, part of the Parkway family that includes the Parkway Cinema in Cleethorpes, is installing its third and digital projector, as well as investing in technology that will allow live broadcasts streamed to the silver screen.

The work has meant it is an ideal time to refit the 78-seater room, relocating the screen to a different wall – to allow for a better view no matter where you sit – the installation of more comfortable seating, as well as new carpets and other enhancements.

Playhouse owner Gerald Parkes said: "The seating capacity will remain the same and will mean this screen will be the same as the other two.

"It will allow us to show all films in digital on all the screens, but will still leave us with the capacity to show 35mm film for the Louth Film Club and for special broadcasts."

The plans also include the installation of a satellite dish, which will mean Louth's independent cinema will be able to show live broadcasts.

Mr Parkes said: "As well as keeping up with the times, it means that knowing when people turn up at the cinema it will be to the standard that people expect.

"The cinema continues to be greatly supported by local people – that is why it is still here and is why we can make this investment.

"We have a great team of staff who are so committed to the place."

The cinema also hopes to refurbish the foyer area and upgrade the ticketing system, allowing film-enthusiasts to book in advance.

The total investment, including the two digital projectors already in place, is about £100,000.

The grand building started off as a Victorian chapel and was developed into a playhouse in the 1920s.

In 1935, the golden age of cinema expansion, a new frontage was added, together with a splendid new staircase to the upper floors.

Parkway took ownership of the Playhouse in 1996 and it was decided to develop the cinema to a three-screen operation.

The latest work is expected to last about four weeks and is being carried out by Andrew Blades Building Services of Louth.

The architect is Tom Cannon of CDC architects in Grimsby.

Find out more

For more information on The Playhouse, visit www.parkwaycinemas.co.uk