Situated in the heart of the city of Newport this cinema now called “City” run by Reel Cinemas, is one of the largest screens in Wales.
It was originally called ABC cinema situated on the site of the the old Lyceum Theatre which was demolished to make way for it.
It was originally a one screen cinema but was converted to a three screen cinema in the 1970s. The main screen 1 is still in use today, and you feel dwarfed while waiting for the film to start. It was a place to see the latest movie during it time, with a one metre leg room between each aisle in screen 1.
The screens also have Dolby Digital Surround Sound the place to enjoy the hole movie experience. Since the closer of the ABC cinema in 1999, it has changed hands several time.
But in January 2008 it was announced that it is going to be closed down to be turned into a Travelodge.
The final closing date has not officially been announced yet, as the date has changed several time since the announcement of the development in to a hotel. As described by South Wales Argus: “Curtain up for hotel in ex-cinema”.
During it time it played host to the independent film festivals such as “WOW One World Film Festival” premiering films such as “The last Horror Movie” and screening films from students of the International Film School of Wales.
Useful Links
Hotel could be set for cinema – South Wales Argus
Curtain up for hotel in ex-cinema – South Wales Argus