Above Left:  A local band poses outside the Jacksdale Picture Palace, which was opened in 1912.
Above Right: The Picture Palace in its days as Woody's Nightclub (Late 1980s)

Newspaper Article - May 10th, 1912
PICTURE PALACE FOR JACKSDALE

The rapidity with which Jacksdale has grown into a thickly populated village is really astonishing, and now may be seen at the crossroads facing the Great Northern Station an imposing looking building whose frontage instantly reveals the object of the undertaking.  There has been a long felt need in the district to relieve the monotony of the common round of daily toil, and thanks to the enterprise of a few local gentlemen this has now been supplied in the nature of a smartly equipped picture palace, constructed on the most modern and up to date lines, where a healthy evening's recreation and amusement may be enjoyed by all classes.

The situation is pleasant, and a large and spacious brick structure has been erected, well ventilated, and having seating accommodation for 650 persons, the dimensions being 81 feet by 30 feet.  The building has been brilliantly lighted throughout with electricity, the plant being driven by an up to date 16 1/2 horse power engine. Interior decorations have been artistically carried out, whilst hot water radiators throw off a regular supply of heat, and the luxurious manner in which the furnishing has been accomplished leaves nothing to be desired for comfort and ease.

Tip up chairs upholstered in red plush are to be found in the best parts of the house.  The Pathe bioscope has been installed and will flash onto the screen the best pictures obtainable, as the Jacksdale Electra Palace Co., (which is the style of the newly formed company) are intent on getting first class films only, with a view to showing pictures of an educational and instructive nature.  There is a well proportioned stage 21ft by 18ft and it is the intention of the proprietors to utilise the building for theatricals, first class concerts, and other entertainments when pictures lose their attraction. The operating room is of the most modern type, being fire proof and fitted with an extinguisher. Collapsible exit doors have also been supplied and the palace will be disinfected before each performance.  Mr Parkes, the late manager of the Fenton Picture Co., has been appointed manager, with a capable staff to assist him. There are to be two performances nightly at 6.15 and 8.15, with a matinee for children on Saturday afternoon, and sacred concerts on Sunday evenings at 8.15.  The popular prices of 6d, 4d and 2d will be charged.  The opening took place on Wednesday night and besides a series of interesting pictures, Mr Wilfred Caunt has been specially engaged to give illustrated songs.

Above: Extract from book written By Mr David Roddis
The Thrill of it All - The Story of the Cinema in Ilkeston and the Erewash Valley"
ISBN 0 9522076 0 5 Pinnacle Printing, Derby
Reproduced with kind permission of the author.

Above Left:   'Bits' N Pieces' in the foreground & in the background the Picture Palace - demolished 2006 - now site of the new Jacksdale Co-Op 

Above Right: During the 60s and 70s the Picture Palace was a night club venue known as 'The Grey Topper' - many world famous bands starred.