City Screen to re-open with celebration of architecture

City Screen, housed in a building which encapsulates the best of old and new York, will re-open later this month with a celebration of architecture.

To mark its formal re-opening following a £300,000 refurbishment, the Coney Street cinema will host the regional launch of the Royal Institute of British Architects’ Love Architecture Festival.

“It’s the culmination of a year’s work to bring these two things together, and I’m pleased that we’re able to bring the launch of Love Architecture to the city of York,” said Dave Taylor, marketing manager of City Screen.

City Screen moved into its riverside location in the old Yorkshire Herald building in 2000 following a conversion by London architects Panter Hudspith which won a Civic Trust Award.

The same firm is behind the refurbishment of the Riverside Café-Bar, the three cinema auditoria, the Box Office, foyer, toilets and kitchen. Mark Panter of Panter-Hudspith will be the key speaker on the night before a screening of the classic architectural film The Fountainhead at 8.45pm.

The York Architectural Association (YAA) will present their exhibition of contemporary York architecture which will hang in the cinema bar throughout the festival, from June 21-30.

Lucy Morris, co-chair of York Architectural Association, added, “York has such a wonderful selection of buildings and spaces that make it so special and unique. The festival is all about celebrating these qualities of our city in a host of different and exciting ways.”

Before the event, ticket-holders are invited to admire the YAA exhibition in the Riverside Café-Bar, and for drinks and canapés from 8.15 in the presence of the Lord Mayor of York and the Civic Party.

For more details go to the City Screen website.