The Granada Theatres

The Granada circuit of cinemas was notable for its distinctive architectural style, provided by Russian-born designer Theodore Komisarjevsky, and for the aggressive promotional flair of its head, Sidney Bernstein. Granadas frequently hosted live shows, including pantomimes, and were always called "theatres". Many have been listed as buildings of outstanding architectural and social interest. Drawing on information derived from the later Lord Berstein papers and from interviews with former managers and film bookers, this history covers all the circuit's buildings. Many photographs have been reprinted from the original negatives, and numerous examples of advertisements are reproduced. Allen Ayles is a film historian whose earlier studies of British cinema circuits are "ABC: The First Name in Entertainment" and "Gaumont British Cinemas".