Art déco style chairs for the St Albans Theatre, UK

“Let’s rewind 20 years to 1995. One historic 1930s cinema is closing its doors to begin 19 years of hibernation.

For the last decade or so, it’s been operating under Odeon, which says the site can no longer compete with the out-of-town multiplexes. Its paint will crumble, its neon popcorn signs will gather dust, and the rats will soon report for carpet-nibbling duty.

The people know there is only one person to turn to for help – the Albus Dumbledore of cinema rescue (he may not wear a velvet cloak, and his facial hair may only boast a white moustache, but he’s just as wise and certainly no less eccentric). James Hannaway has previously expressed interest in the St Albans cinema, having then given up when his offer to buy fell through. One call for change in the local paper and one heartfelt letter are all it takes to get him back in the game.

Today, both cinemas stand as a testament to the potential of the independent picturehouse. Many locals of St Albans and Berkhamsted have given up on driving out to the commercial complexes altogether, in favour of becoming a regular on a comfy seat with lots of legroom, in a place where they’re bound to bump into friends. Those who predicted the cinemas would serve only the middle-classes and middle-aged have been forced to swallow their words, with the tickets being the same price or cheaper than the massive multi-screens nearby.”

Quinette Gallay is proud to have contributed to the preservation of this centenary cinema by creating, manufacturing and installing the 452 Action Club and Gold chairs.