Projection Equipment Donated by ODEON Braehead

The Broadway's analogue projection arsenal has also expanded with a second Christmas for our team of projectionists at ODEON Braehead!

We would like to officially thank our close friend Colin Butler, Sound and Projection Manager for ODEON in the UK and Ireland, for the incredibly kind donations and behind-the-scenes access in Braehead. The 12-screen multiplex opened in October 2007, meaning that by the time the introduction of digital projection arrived, the 35mm equipment that was new when installed had only been in operation for less than four years! Practically still new for the durability and life of the machinery, four of the original twelve Cinemeccanica Victoria 5 projectors were still in-situ when we arrived in December, having gathered dust for over 14 years!

The Broadway was officially donated two of the Cinemeccanica Victoria 5s, bringing our total number of Vic 5s up to four! We were also donated a Cinemeccanica CNR 3-35N film platter, an automated Cinemeccanica rewinder, and even a small collection of left-over 35mm film. Behind-the-scenes access to a projection room of the biggest cinema chain in the country is a very special privilege, and we cannot thank Colin enough for opportunity.

Our aim of preserving the art of analogue projection at the Broadway is integral to the project's vision, and these donations take us one step closer to passing on those skills of the past to future generations. Our visit also highlighted just how strange modern projection rooms are. Devoid of light and life, they are eerie places, nothing like the bustling engine rooms of the past.

At the Broadway that will all change. Our ninth and tenth projectors will soon come to life once again!

Ten 35mm projectors... It's not just a phase, mum.