History of The Plaza Cinema in Dorchester

Dorchester is lucky enough to be home to a classic cinema The Plaza Cinema. Located on Trinity Street, right in the heart of Dorchester, the cinema has been operating for just over 90 years, making this one of the oldest cinemas in Dorset.

Step back in time to 1933

The Plaza Cinema in Dorchester first opened its doors almost a century ago on 10th July 1933 by a local firm Watts Bro. Back then, the cinema first had one screen with a maximum seating capacity of 986. The set up of the cinema originally had an upper and lower circle with stalls (front and rear). The was also a cafe under the upper circle fronting Trinity Street.

The cinema’s debut screening was King Kong, which was reportedly the first showing outside London, straight from the London Coliseum. When the cinema first opened, its grand opening was welcomed with many congratulatory telegrams from those including Gracie Fields and Ivor Novello.

The Plaza in Dorchester shares the same iconic art-deco building design as two other cinemas – Plaza in Romsey, Hampshire and the Ritz in Burnham-on-Sea. And during WW2 it was reported that German bombers would aim for the Dorchester landmark as it was the tallest building in the town centre. The story goes, that a bomb landed around the old Marks & Spencer store and narrowly missed the Plaza.

Modern Day Plaza Cinema in Dorchester

The historic cinema has undergone expansion and renovations since its opening in 1933. The cinema in Dorchester has since opened additional screens within the former cafe and circle areas. The former circle area now operates as screen 1 with 180 seats and the former cafe was renovated into another screen which occupies up to 80 viewers.

In 2008 the Picturedrome Electric Theatre Company took over the Plaza Cinema. The company added two screens to create a four-screen cinema. One screen was added in January 2011 and the last in 2012.

Bringing us to the current day, the cinema in Dorchester now shows new release blockbuster movies and old-time classics, as well as live stream events, such as operas, ballet, and theatre from around the UK and the World. With the recent renovations, the cinema has still kept its classic charm, with the cinema describing the look as a modern twist on the traditional ‘Art-Deco’ architecture of the building.

Visit The Historic Cinema in Dorchester

The Plaza Cinema shows many new film releases, as well as old-time classics, seasonal showings, cult classics and special movie features throughout the week. If you’re looking for a classic cinematic experience, then you must pay this cinema a visit.

It’s not just the classic decor you’ll be amazed by when visiting the cinema. Time and time again, visitors comment on the staff who welcome you to the venue and make your experience that extra bit special.

The Plaza has a range of snacks and treats to enjoy with your cinematic experience. The cinema is also fully licensed, so you can enjoy a range of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks whilst watching a film..

And the ticket price … Tickets for showings are just £5 when booking directly at the cinema and £5.45 when booking online. If you fancy an even better deal … The Plaza run a special offer on a Thursday, called Movie Moments films – and tickets are only £2.50 (and this includes a free hot drink and a biscuit)!!

To check out the current viewings at the cinema in Dorchester and to book tickets, visit The Plaza Cinema’s website or download their iOS or Android app for more information.

The Plaza is located in the heart of Dorchester on 31-32 Trinity St, Dorchester DT1 1TT.

The cinema has a 24-hour film information line. If you would like to chat with the team, you can call the cinema on 01305 262488. If you would like to keep up to date on the latest viewings and news, you can follow the Plaza Cinema on Instagram and Facebook.

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