The Palace Theatre / ABC Cinema, 13, Dalton Square, Lancaster

Opened on 8 July 1929, the Palace Theatre was designed by J. C. Derham of Derham and Kay, of London. It had a small stage with no fly-tower and was essentially built as a cinema, with seating for 1,208 patrons. A Western Electric sound system was installed from the outset. It was later equipped with a Christie organ and in 1937 it was re-named the ABC (Associated British Cinemas) It closed in 1974

Durham and Kay was a short-lived partnership between John Christopher Durham’ previously manager with Berties Crewe, and (unknown) Kay in London, the Palace Cinema being their only known work.  It is believed that this operated as a partnership rather than a limited liability company as suggested by some sources. By 1929 J. C. Derham had removed to Blackpool

THE PALACE, LANCASTER’S LATEST ENTERPRISE - The “Palace” is a decided addition to the town’s amenities. The premises extend from Balton Square to Mary Street. The theatre itself is capacious and compact. Excellently designed by Mr J. C. Derham of Messrs Derham and Kay, architects, of London, it is possible to see all that is going on either on stage or screen in comfort from every part of the building. On the ground floor there is seating accommodation for 700 people, whilst the circle will seat some 500. It has been erected according to the most modern ideas, and it is asserted that it is one of the best theatres outside London. It is fitted up for either pictures or plays and it is the intention of the management to give the public their choice of both. The stage is well-equipped with all the most modern appliances whilst the lighting scheme is charming in every way. The theatre is decorated in a most artistic manner, the colour scheme lending enchantment to the eye. The seating on the ground floor and in the circle, where the seats rising in tiers assuring everyone of a clear view, gives every patron a comfortable seat. The circle is approached by two staircases and a lift. Entrance is obtained from Dalton Square and Mary Street. The former entrance caters for the higher-priced and it is laid out on the most up-to-date lines. There is a large entrance hall which affords waiting accommodation for a large number of people and the box office arrangements are of the latest type providing for the speedy handling of a crowd by the installation of a ticket issuing machine. The heating and ventilation apparatus is also of the latest pattern, and comfort is assured for patrons both in winter and summer. Over the entrance hall a café is being fitted up where light refreshments can be obtained. The premises are carpeted throughout and the chairs, which are of the tip-up order, are finished in blue plush to match the carpets.
In order that the latest development in the entertainment world mat be offered to Lancastrians, the management have had installed the latest sound reproducing machinery. This reproduces sound, either instrumental, vocal music or the spoken word, in a most realistic manner through a media of an apparatus which it is claimed is the last word in its class. The company have installed their own generating plant fir lighting and power, and the scheme has been so arranged that the shaded lights, as required by law, will be continuously in operation should the other lights fail.

The “house” has been erected by the Hippodrome Limited, (Lancaster), proprietors of the County Cinema.; The contractors were Messrs Thompson and Morris of Lancaster. [Lancaster Observer 12 July 1929 page 8] 

Reference    Builder 14 September 1928 page 420
Reference    Lancaster Observer 12 July 1929 page 8