Kinematograph year book (1935)

224 The Kinematograph Year Book. new machine is the flat counter model which is supplied with a cash till which is securely locked when the machine is not in operation. The theatre machines of the Automaticket range are : Model " K," electrically propelled ; Model " H," hand-operated ticket issuer; and Model " C," the ticket cabinet and issuer, equally useful for stationary installation as for mobile entertainment organisations. This machine is much used in even the largest theatres for subsidiary issues, to work alongside Model " K " or model " H " machines. Throughout the world Automaticket machines are known and well thought of ; to-day they are used in tens of thousands, largely because of the virtue of quality built into them. They are so designed that they are never out of date and the purchaser is assured of a machine possessing not only a carefree period of useful life, but also a long one. This quality in the design and construction of Automaticket machines is equally present in the smallest and cheapest as in the largest and dearest of the Automaticket range. We see Automaticket machines made 15 years ago still in active and daily use, giving that carefree and reliable service which is essential in mechanism for cash control. THE SMALL STAGE. — The improvement of the stage is another point to which attention should be paid by the small owner who would successfully resist competition. The stage or platform with the screen forms the focal point of interest. The redesign of the proscenium arch or the front mask is not difficult and if properly carried out can be extremely effective. The basis of the alteration should embody the dual purpose of illuminating the screen tabs and the indirect lighting of the surround. The enlargement of the stage platform by two to three feet may sacrifice some seating but if accompanied by the installation of simple equipment — say footlights, a batten and screen tabs, will more than repay the economical outlay involved. In practically all new constructions of medium sized kinemas, mechanical stage equipment, organ lifts, etc., are an essential. Specialists in this direction are Knight & Co. Ltd., W. J. Furze Ltd., etc. SEATING AND FURNISHINGS. At no time in the history of the trade has more attention been paid to the furnishings of the kinema. No effort is spared to ensure that the theatre itself is an integral factor in the patron's enjoyment, and the modern theatre' whether " super " in character or of essentially modest proportions, cannot risk unfavourable comparison in this direction with its competitors. And while exhibitors have been quick to respond to the public demand for "de luxe" surroundings, there is apparent, happily, a growing appreciation of the value of experience. It is now realised that theatre furnishing is a specialised trade and not a trifling question of buying so many seats. There has been a closei consideration of quality and a genuine interest in the wide difference of prices between seats of apparently identical design. There has been little notable change in chair design, and according to Pixtons, Ltd., full depth bucket backs, sprung front-edge seats and rubber arm rests, comprise what is virtually a standard specification for the modern theatre. Such well-known firms as Lazarus and Sons, Hamptons, Maples, W. W. Turner and Beck and Windibank have found that plain and patterned ACCURATE TICKET ISSUING MACHINES for better BOX OFFICE service. Best since 1895 — Accurate Check Taker, Ltd., 94, Wardour St., W.I.