From Friday 25th October to Sunday 27th October 2024, the iconic Paignton Picture House will be transformed into a breathtaking outdoor cinematic experience, as its façade is illuminated with captivating projections celebrating the building’s rich history and marking the start of its final phase of restoration.
Residents and visitors are invited to attend this free event and witness “Echoes: Paignton in Motion”, a collaborative project commissioned as part of Wide Open Paignton, with Filament Works, the Paignton Picture House Trust, and The Media Workshop. The projections will include work by artists Kelly Bryant, Hugh Malyon, and Steve Sowden – artists each working at the interface of creative digital with live work, and all with strong Paignton roots. ‘Echoes: Paignton in Motion’ is inspired by the early pioneers of cinema such as the Lumière brothers and Thomas Edison.
At the heart of this site-specific piece is a giant rotating ‘zoetrope’ that turns the Picture House into a colossal motion picture machine, symbolising the town’s deep connection with cinema and local history. The projections will explore the origins of motion pictures while drawing parallels with Paignton’s own story, including its steam railway and the community that surrounds it.
How to Experience the Event:
The public can book free 15-minute slots to fully immerse themselves in the audiovisual spectacle using ‘silent disco’ headsets. For those unable to book a slot, the vibrant projections can still be enjoyed by passers-by from the roadside, making it an accessible experience for all.
The projections will be running during the following times:
Friday, 25th October: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Saturday, 26th October: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Sunday, 27th October: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Booking in advance is encouraged. Each 15-minute slot offers 100 headsets, with tickets released in phases to ensure everyone has a chance to participate. Some walk-ups will also be welcome, with a refundable £5 cash deposit required for headset collection. Deposits are not needed for advance bookings via the website.
For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.wide-open.uk/echoes-paignton-in-motion
Restoration of a Paignton Icon:
‘Echoes: Paignton in Motion’ is the final opportunity to witness the Paignton Picture House in such a dynamic way before it enters the last stages of its restoration, set for completion in early 2026. Once reopened, the fully restored cinema will showcase its original mosaic floors, ornate ticket offices, intricate plasterwork, and Art Deco lighting, with modern upgrades such as improved accessibility, eco-friendly heat pumps, and solar panels. The revamped space will include a café, community areas, and a versatile auditorium for screenings and events, playing a pivotal role in Paignton’s cultural regeneration.
“This exciting outdoor event marks a special moment in the life of the historic Paignton Picture House as it enters its chrysalis phase before reopening as a community arts and cinema space in 2026. We are thrilled to bring the building’s facade to life with moving images and sounds that reflect the building’s significance and its cherished place in the hearts of Paigntonians and film lovers alike.” Clare Parker, Producer, Filament:
“Storytelling through image and sound on a grand scale – this is a moment to say goodbye to the Paignton Picture House in its current form, and to look forward to its re-opening in 2026. Celebrating our heritage in this way is part of what grows the vitality of our communities and sense of place. I hope that residents and visitors alike will join together to mark this special event in Paignton as part of our Cultural Development Fund project.” Dr Rachael Kiddey, Strategic Lead: Culture & Heritage, Torbay Council.
More cultural events in Paignton in October
Running concurrently with the projection event is a supporting exhibition from 23rd – 27th October in The Projection Room, a new cultural space at 11 Torbay Road made possible by Paignton Picture House Trust. The exhibition provides a deeper insight into “Echoes: Paignton in Motion” and the work of the artists involved.
In addition to “Echoes: Paignton in Motion,” a whole range of creative and cultural activities are on offer through October and into Half-Term. Wide Open Paignton’s October programme offers a range of free and pay-what-you-can cultural experiences in the town centre including: exhibitions, writing workshops, artist residencies & talks, creative activities for kids and much more. You can find out more online at www.wide-open.uk, or pick up an illustrated map leaflet with listings/info from partners including: Paignton Library, Palace Theatre, Projection Room, Sound Communities CIC and others across Paignton town centre.
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