Pioneer Theatre
26 Northgate,
Dewsbury,
WF13 1DX
26 Northgate,
Dewsbury,
WF13 1DX
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This building have been converted for use as a college. THis wil preserve the building. The last theatrical use was by the Dewsbury Operatic Society. The projection room was under the clock tower to the audience’s left and a special lens system had to be used to correct the keystone effect.
Found the answer. The listing text is quite recent and contains a description of the interior.
https://britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/101300442-former-co-operative-society-building-pioneer-house-dewsbury-east-ward
“The second floor consists of a single massive space originally used as a concert/public hall and later converted for theatre and cinema use. A later stage, proscenium arch and balcony have all now been removed, and a large steel sub-structure with a mezzanine level has been inserted.”
Interesting interior photo. This appears to be the top of the proscenium arch, but the decorated ceiling extends behind to the rear wall indicating that the room was converted to a theatre, and not part of the original design - perhaps starting as a multi-purpose or concert hall?
I had the building “listed” while I was living is Dewsbury and won a Public Enquirey to have it preserved.
A vintage drawing of the Pioneer Building and some additional history here:
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Urban Explorers have documented the building in 2008:
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