Ornate picture palaces in England � each made complete with a Compton or Wurlitzer pipe organ � were pleasure domes where films were mixed with live musical performances, stage productions, radio broadcasts, and talent contests into a glorious tapestry of movie-variety shows. Donald Inkster writes of the phenomenal Union Cinemas chain of theatres and their deluxe Ritz houses. Peaking in 1936-37, the chain opened new theatres weekly and broadcast organ music and variety shows daily. Theatre organs and organists prospered as richly described. 167pp, illustrated, softbound. |