presents
Paignton Picture House
-Digital Stories-
-Digital Stories-
presented by Digital Media Students of
presents
Paignton Picture House
-Digital Stories-
-Digital Stories-
presented by Digital Media Students of
In this section, South Devon College takes a closer look at the educational potential of the Paignton Picture House and the broader cultural heritage of Torbay. We are committed to creating engaging educational content that brings the rich history and significance of these landmarks to life for the younger generation. Through storytelling, creative projects, and collaborative learning, we aim to make culture in Torbay accessible and inspiring for all, ensuring that its legacy continues to thrive within our community.
In an effort to digitally preserve one of the UK’s oldest surviving cinemas, we conducted a comprehensive 3D LiDAR scan of the Paignton Picture House before its renovations. Using the cutting-edge Leica BLK360 LiDAR scanner, we captured intricate details of the historic structure, ensuring that its pre-renovation state was archived with precision.
Working alongside students and leveraging our academic partnership with Epic Games, we utilised RealityCapture software to process the scan data into high-resolution 3D mesh models. This meticulous process allowed us to generate an accurate digital representation of the space, which could then be imported into industry-standard 3D production tools for further development.
To bring the scan to life, we used Blender to animate a smooth flythrough of the digital model, providing an immersive virtual tour of the venue. To enhance realism, we applied Physically Based Rendering (PBR) techniques to accurately simulate the lighting conditions within the historic cinema, adding depth and atmosphere to the final visualisation.
This project not only served as a valuable educational opportunity for students but also ensured that the legacy of the Paignton Picture House remains accessible in digital form for future generations. As the building undergoes its transformation, our detailed 3D scans stand as a testament to its storied past, preserving its unique architectural features for historical reference and virtual exploration.
Bringing the Paignton Picture House to Life Through Interactive Gaming
As part of an innovative digital preservation project, a team of four second-year students developed an interactive game inspired by the historic Paignton Picture House. Working with the venue’s brief, the students created a unique experience where players can pick up film reels and play them on the projector, immersing themselves in the magic of cinema’s golden age.
The game was developed in Unreal Engine 5, utilising cutting-edge technology to recreate elements of the Picture House in an interactive format. Initially, the students aimed to build a full VR walkthrough of the space, incorporating the detailed 3D LiDAR scan of the venue. However, to ensure a focused and polished experience, they concentrated their efforts on crafting a smaller-scale minigame that captures the essence of the Picture House.
Over the course of two months, the students operated as a mini studio, with each team member assigned specific roles and responsibilities. They worked to tight deadlines, mimicking industry workflows and gaining invaluable hands-on experience in game development, project management, and immersive storytelling.
This project not only provided students with a professional development opportunity but also contributed to the ongoing efforts to celebrate and preserve the legacy of the Paignton Picture House. By blending historical preservation with interactive technology, the students have helped create a new way for audiences to engage with and appreciate the cinema’s storied past.
Step right up for a seaside spectacle full of laughter, learning, and a little bit of silliness! Join Steven the Seagull and Kevin the Crab as they dive into the fascinating history of the Paignton Picture House. From silent films and the magic of the first “talkies” to wartime stories and exciting hopes for the future, this lively Punch and Judy–style performance brings local history to life in a fun and engaging way for all ages. Expect jokes, surprises, and plenty of seaside charm as our cheeky characters celebrate one of Paignton’s most treasured landmarks!
Get ready for a delightful seaside adventure filled with mystery and fun! Join Steven the Seagull and Kevin the Crab as they introduce you to the incredible life of Agatha Christie, one of the world’s most famous writers. Through laughter, lively dialogue, and classic Punch and Judy-style storytelling, this engaging performance brings to life famous detectives, incredible adventures, and the imagination behind over two billion books sold. Perfect for audiences of all ages, this charming show celebrates creativity, curiosity, and the power of storytelling—proving that big dreams can begin right here by the sea!
Step into the magical world of movies with this lively Punch and Judy–style performance! Join Steven the Seagull and Kevin the Crab as they take you on a fun-filled journey through the history of cinema in England. From the very first silent films and grand “picture palaces” to the excitement of talkies, colour films, and famous stars, this engaging show brings the story of cinema to life with humour, energy, and seaside charm. Perfect for all ages, it’s a delightful celebration of how films have entertained and inspired audiences for over a century!
Get ready for a fun-filled seaside adventure as Steven the Seagull and Kevin the Crab explore the exciting cultural treasures of Torbay! In this lively Punch and Judy–style show, audiences are taken on a journey through amazing local attractions—from fascinating caves and historic abbeys to incredible wildlife and miniature worlds. Packed with humour, energy, and plenty of surprises, this engaging performance celebrates the rich history, culture, and natural beauty right on our doorstep. Perfect for all ages, it’s an inspiring reminder that adventure and discovery are never far away!
Step into the seaside story of Paignton with this lively and entertaining Punch and Judy–style show! Join Steven the Seagull and Kevin the Crab as they uncover the rich cultural history of this much-loved Devon town. From ancient beginnings and Victorian holidays to famous visitors, seaside traditions, and modern-day celebrations, this fun-filled performance brings local history to life with humour, charm, and plenty of audience delight. Perfect for all ages, it’s a joyful celebration of Paignton’s past, present, and the stories that make it so special!
“ Agatha Christie, the famous “Queen of Mystery,” was born in Torquay in 1890 and became one of the most successful writers of all time, creating iconic characters like Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple.
A lesser-known part of her life is her connection to the Paignton Picture House, one of Europe’s oldest cinemas, opened in 1914. As a young woman, Christie regularly visited the cinema, where films inspired her imagination and love of storytelling. It was also a place she shared with her first husband around the time she began writing her first novel.
Today, the Picture House stands as an important part of her story, representing the creative influences that helped shape her career, and efforts are being made to restore it so it can continue inspiring future generations.”