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 This landmark building from the great age of popular entertainment, the 1920s, is getting ready to power back into life after several years 'in the dark'. Bridport's much-loved Electric Palace will switch on again for the 21st century, not just as a cinema but also as a laboratory & training ground for the arts & a beacon for film, theatre, dance, photography & music.
Firmly rooted in the community, the Electric Palace will respect its local links with a mix of accessible entertainment for all age groups & an open door policy to those wanting to work in the arts, providing them with both a platform & training opportunities.While encouraging West Dorset's dynamic local creativity, it will bring the world to Bridport through national & international links & exciting, varied programming. Young people are the key to the future of the Electric Palace which will foster talent through initiating local projects & offering studio space, apprenticeship programmes & courses. Equally our doors will be open to schools, societies & receptions, while the brasserie & bars will be a welcome meeting place. Backed by overwhelming local support & interest, we're getting ready to generate an electrifying mix of local, international, young & old, classic & contemporary - transforming this building with its 80-year heritage of glamour, memories & entertainment into a true palace of the arts. CLASSIC & CONTEMPORARY
 Dating from 1926, the Electric Palace's decor blends neo-classic with Art Nouveau, including the celebrated staircase mural panels by George 'Tricky' Biles. Together their design value is recognised & protected by Listed Building status. Entering through a roofed atrium area, guests will find a Parisian-style brasserie extending back into the foyer which will also house the all-new kitchen. The lower auditorium will feature a large bar. Front rows of seating will be removable revealing a new 12m x 10m dancefloor. An arts bookshop & a cybercafe will be located in the upstairs foyer.A series of rooms behind the multi-purpose stage & screen area will be transformed into studio spaces, editing suites & a renovated Green room. A new photographers gallery will be created in the 'industrial' engine room with its glazed roof. COMMUNITY COMMITMENT
 Constituted as a not-for-profit organisation, the objective of the Electric Palace is to reinvest trading profits in supporting communtiy initiatives & artistic development. Grant aid from a variety of funding bodies, corporate & individual sponsors is currently being sought for all aspects of our redevelopment & programming. Ticket pricing & studio hire charges will be affordable to attract a local audience & be accessible to those with special needs & most importantly to young people in the area. The programming mix will include national & international high-quality screenings, performance, exhibitions & bands, but will also offer low-cost daytime events, budget family & children's access & a loyalty programme. As part of a wider national & international community of multi-arts venues, the Electric Palace is forging links with similar ventures in Europe & around the world. These links will translate into diversity of programming, cultural exchange & the flow of information & ideas, providing Bridport & West Dorset with both a window on the world & a showcase for local talent in film & photography, creative writing, art & performance. Website www.electricpalace.org.uk
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