External images

Excerpt describing the frontage from the Opening Night Souvenir Programme - 24th December 1928

"It is, however, the superstructure which really delights and pleases. “ Imposing ” is the appropriate word to use regarding the external aspect.

The main façade, which is Greek in character, disposing to the Modernist influence, has been carried out in light Terra Cotta, so that if dignified and beautiful by day, it is naturally adapted for Scientific flood-lighting and, when illuminated, presents a most arresting and inviting appearance by night."

As a cinema

The Architect John Knight's signed watercolour concept painting of the "Imposing" façade of his latest cinema design.

(Image courtesy of North West Film Archive)

Spring 1928 and building work of the foundations of the Ambassador start to rise from the ground

(Image courtesy of North West Film Archive)

Summer of 1928, the outer walls of the Ambassador were damaged when a hawser snapped dropping an iron girder

(Image courtesy of North West Film Archive)

In February 1928, the the foundations and sub-structure of the Ambassador were being built.

(Image courtesy of North West Film Archive)

The physical manafestation of John Knights designs.

Ambassador Super Cinema 1930

(Image courtesy of the Cinema Theatre Association)

Manager John Howard's brother and his new wife, exiting the Ambassador following their wedding reception in 1930

(Image courtesy of North West Film Archive)

In 1954, the Ambassador hosted the Northern premiere of David Lean's film "Hobson's Choice," Salford's Own Story

(Image courtesy of North West Film Archive)

NOTE: All North West Film Archive photos were donated to the archive by John Howard's son and included many images of another Snape & Ward Cinema, the Ellesmere Super Cinema, Swinton.

John Howard, was the first manager of the Ambassador Cinema in Pendleton which opened in 1928. He finished at the Ambassador in 1938 and became a director of the Ellesmere Cinema, Salford. Mr Howard the donor was the manager of the Plaza bingo Stockport at the time of the donation.

The North West Film Archive is located in the Manchester Central Library building.