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Another theatre operated from pre-Granada Circuit days was the Empire Willesden.  The Bernstiens had sold this Theatre to Denman (London) Ltd., part of Gaumont British Theatres, but had retained the booking and management rights.  In 1936, Granada undertook a major remodeling of the Empire Willesden, and the it was renamed Granada upon its re-opening  in September 1936.

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Len Rawle at the Theatre Organ of the Granada Theatre Willesden
This photograph was provided by Mr. Rawle

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I have been contacted recently by Mr. Paul Kirner who informs me that the Empire Willesden opened in 1920 with no organ present.  However, when the Theatre was re-modelled in 1927, it re-opened with a Christie Theatre Organ (2 manuals, 7 ranks) now installed.  The Theatre was re-modelled once more in 1936 and renamed, Granada.

The Christie Theatre Organ was Wurlitzerised by Hill, Norman & Beard (i.e. The Christie Company) by adding French Pillars (see above, Granada Theatre Maidstone) to the console and increased to 9 ranks.  The Organ was played by Harold Ramsay at the time of reopening.  In addition, Donald Thorne is known to have made some recordings playing this Organ.

I would like to thank Mr. Paul Kirner for providing this information.

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Click here to hear Donald Thorne playing the Theatre Organ of the Granada Theatre Willesden

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The Theatre closed in 1962 and became a Granada Social Club.  From 1994, the building was used for a variety of purposes including a theatre, a cinema and a church.  I have been told that it is currently being remodeled and will open soon as a church and apartments.

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Click here to hear Sidney Torch play 12th Street Rag

Click here to hear Sidney Torch at the Theatre Organ, Alfredo Campoli (violin) and Webster Booth (recorded ~ 1933).
This piece was provided by Mrs. Jean Collen.

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