It closed in 2000, and was largely forgotten about until the Kirkcaldy Kings Theatre Trust started the ambitious project to bring it back to life five years ago.
The cinema sits at the hear of a sprawling town centre complex which includes the YWCA – now the Kings Live Lounge – on the Esplanade, and a ballroom, which nestles between the buildings.
As work to install a robust temporary roof on the former cinema nears completion, we were given a tour inside to see the extent of the challenge that lies ahead in the bid to bring a once thriving building back into use.
. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
The paybox which sat at the main door remains a familiar landmark even 21 years after the building closed (Pic: John Murray). Photo: John Murray
. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
Scenes from inside the cinema which closed 21 years ago Photo: Fife Free Press
. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
No trip to the cinema was complete without a stop at the kiosk! Photo: Fife Free Press
. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
Despite the decay, the foyer retains many of its original features - look up and you can still see glimpses of the art deco design. Photo: Fife Free Press
. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
The cinema's giant air conditioning system is still in place - and it includes cast iron doors bearing the name of the original manufacturer Photo: Fife Free Press
. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
Paint is peeling from the walls, but you can still see the signage pointing patrions to the circle Photo: Fife Free Press
. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
Thirsty? The old Pepsi drinks dispenser in the kiosk which lead to the cinema screens downstairs Photo: Fife Free Press
. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
This was Cinema 3 looking into Cinema 2 - the dividing wall has been knocked down and is little more than rubble. Photo: Fife Free Press
. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
The distinctive red chairs have been removed from the cinemas... but a few of them can still be found in the building, along with old signage (Pic: John Murray) Photo: John Murray
1. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
Scenes from inside the cinema which closed 21 years ago Photo: Fife Free Press
2. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
No trip to the cinema was complete without a stop at the kiosk! Photo: Fife Free Press
3. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
Despite the decay, the foyer retains many of its original features - look up and you can still see glimpses of the art deco design. Photo: Fife Free Press
4. Inside Kirkcaldy's ABC Cinema
The cinema's giant air conditioning system is still in place - and it includes cast iron doors bearing the name of the original manufacturer Photo: Fife Free Press