Broadway Cinema & Theatre – A Cultural Jewel in Letchworth Garden City
Located in the heart of Letchworth Garden City, the Broadway Cinema & Theatre is a vibrant testament to community, culture, and heritage. Owned and operated by the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation, this historic venue reflects the ideals of Ebenezer Howard, founder of the world’s first Garden City. Inspired by his time in post-fire Chicago, Howard envisioned a place that harmonized urban living with green spaces. That vision lives on, not just in the town’s thoughtful layout, but in its enduring commitment to reinvesting profits into the local community.
The Garden City Legacy
Letchworth Garden City was founded in the late 19th century as a model town built on the principles of health, well-being, and social equity. Howard, who is buried in Letchworth Cemetery, believed that combining the best elements of town and country living could alleviate urban poverty and promote a better quality of life. Today, the Heritage Foundation continues this legacy, using business profits to benefit the local population.
Since its glamorous opening in 1936, with a screening of Follow the Fleet starring Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, Broadway Cinema & Theatre has been a cultural cornerstone. Over the decades, it has welcomed political rallies, community speeches, live music performances, and an ever-evolving slate of films—from golden-age classics to modern masterpieces.
Modern Comfort, Classic Charm
Though updated for the 21st century, Broadway proudly retains its Art Deco architecture, providing a unique backdrop for every visit. It boasts four elegant screens, a professional-grade stage and backstage area, and an inviting bar space—making it a versatile venue for everything from film screenings to private events and live theatre.
A Cinema for Everyone
The venue caters to a wide audience, with affordable Kids Club screenings, event cinema showings, and a curated Film Club that offers an eclectic mix far beyond standard Hollywood fare. Broadway is a welcoming space for cinephiles, families, and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Recent upgrades have elevated the comfort and aesthetics of the cinema experience. New Ferco Tala seating includes Tala Plus (linked), Tala Twin, and Tala Glide seats in the front row. Each seat features a smart swivel table with walnut-finished cupholders, embroidered seat numbers and aisle letters, and is upholstered in PANAZ luxe performance velvet in rich Fig (648) and Bordeaux (467) tones.
More Than a Cinema
Whether you're watching a classic film, attending a live performance, or hosting an event, Broadway Cinema & Theatre is more than just a venue—it's a community hub rooted in a unique history and driven by a purpose to enrich lives.
