Sad to see this fine Edinburgh building lying empty.
The old Odeon Cinema on the Southside of the city has been unused and unloved for more than twenty years.
Originally named the New Victoria, the cinema’s grand opening was on the 25th August 1930.
Just over a mile away, it was also a big day for Fountainbridge parents Joseph and Euphemia, as they celebrated the birth of their son, Thomas (Sean) Connery.
Sir Samuel Chapman M.P. performed the opening ceremony of the new 2000 plus seater cinema, and famed organist Leslie James entertained the audience on the mighty Wurlitzer.
The first film shown was Rookery Nook, voted the best British movie of 1930, starring Tom Walls and Ralph Lynn.
One Shilling (5 pence) gave you the best seat for the matinee, in the evening, the price rose to Two Shillings and Fourpence (12 pence).
In April 1964, the cinema was renamed Odeon after a re-branding by the Rank Organisation.
In 1978, the stage was deepened, resulting in a performance area better suited for music performances.
Some of the biggest names in the music business performed at the Odeon.
In 1982, the Odeon’s role as a music venue ended when it was converted into a triple-screen cinema.
The cinema ceased operations on August 30th, 2003.
Some bands who played the Odeon
- WHITESNAKE – Wednesday, 07 October 1979
- CAMEL – Tuesday 23 October 1979
- THE KINKS – Saturday 23 January 1979
- BUZZCOCKS with JOY DIVISION – Saturday 06 October 1979
- WINGS – Saturday 15 December 1979
- IGGY POP and THE STOOGES – Wednesday 06 February 1980
- SIMPLE MINDS – Friday 31 October 1980
- TOYAH WILCOX – Friday 29 May 1981
- DURAN DURAN – Monday 06 July 1981
- GILLAN – Saturday 07 November 1981
For a comprehensive listing of Odeon gigs see the excellent Edinburgh Gig Archive.