Calon Llanelli

The Harry Weedon designed Odeon Theatre opened in 1938, its Art Deco styling typical of the circuit with red bricks and cream, grey and green faience tiles. Classic Cinemas took over in 1967 and tripled the cinema by extending the circle forward to create Screen 1, and splitting the rear stalls to form Screens 2 and 3. In 1976 Classic sold the cinema to Llanelli Borough Council, which added full stage facilities to Screen 1 to create a theatre. The exterior remains unaltered from Harry Weedon's iconic design except for extensions to provide back-of-house facilities and access. Internally, a small foyer leads to two cinemas at stalls level. Former circle café converted to provide ample sized bar. Many Art Deco features remain. Steps up to theatre which is entered from the centre. Warm auditorium with red plush seats and walls covered in wooden brown tongue and groove panelling. In January 2013 a new cultural and creative centre for the arts, Y Ffwrnes, opened in Llanelli. Theatre Elli held its last performance in December 2012 and is now closed. The venue was purchased in 2013 by a prviate buyer at full market value. In 2014 Calon Llanelli purchased the building and is restoring it as a cinema and live music venue.