Art Picture Playhouse, Jodrell Street, New Mills near Stockport, Derbyshire

Building work on the first theatre on the site commenced in March 1911 and the theatre opened on Saturday 24th June 1911 as "The New Mills Empire and Hippodrome." Architects: John & J. B. Fraser, Proprietors New Mills Cinematograph & Entertainment Co Ltd.

Messrs Walters and Law purchased the cinema on 20 November 1920 and closed it on Saturday April 9th 1921, for "entire reconstruction, decoration and general improvements". Among the alterations was an upper storey with a lounge, now the theatre licensed bar. This originally had an exquisite marble fireplace since moved to the foyer. A new circle was also erected with a box at either side. The doors were opened once more on 29 August 1921. Again a mixture of of films, plays, pantomimes and even grand opera and occasionally variety were produced. Proscenium width 22ft. Stage, 22ft. Five dressing-rooms. No fly tower.

The Cinema closed in March 1950. About 1955 it was bought by amateurs and re-opened 1959 as amateur theatre. 511 seats. Still in use as the New Mills Art Theatre.