Step back in time to the 1960s, when Southampton's Mayflower Park was transformed into a mesmerising realm of cinematic wonder. A colossal big top marquee, dwarfing all those around it, materialised like a mirage, promising an experience unlike any other - Cinerama.

This wasn't just watching a movie; it was being transported into another world.

Imagine, if you will, a screen so vast, so deeply curved, that it enveloped your vision entirely.

Three synchronised projectors cast their spellbinding images, merging seamlessly to create a panorama of breathtaking realism.

The innovative Cinerama system, a marvel of its time, blurred the lines between audience and action, immersing viewers in the heart of the story.

The name itself, a fusion of "cinema" and "panorama," hinted at the grandeur that awaited. Derived from the Greek words "pan" (all) and "orama" (sight), Cinerama truly lived up to its promise, offering a spectacle that captivated the senses.

Interestingly, the word bore an uncanny resemblance to "American," a fitting coincidence considering its origins in the United States.

One of the most memorable Cinerama experiences was the virtual roller-coaster ride. As the on-screen coaster ascended, the audience held its breath, feeling the anticipation build with each clickety-clack of the climb. Then, the plunge – a stomach-churning drop that sent shivers down spines and elicited gasps of exhilaration.

It was a sensation so vivid, so authentic, that viewers swore they could feel the wind whipping through their hair.

Year after year, the arrival of the Cinerama marquee was a much-anticipated event, drawing thrill-seekers from far and wide.

For a month, the city would buzz with excitement as residents and visitors alike flocked to witness this cinematic marvel.

Cinerama was more than just entertainment; it was an occasion. In an era when television was vying for attention, Cinerama offered a unique and unforgettable theatrical experience.

Reserved seating, printed programs, and patrons dressed in their finest attire added to the air of sophistication.

September 1965 saw the return of Cinerama to Southampton, and the excitement was palpable

The moment the imposing marquee was erected and the rows of seats were arranged, eager crowds began to gather, their anticipation growing with each passing hour.

Tickets for the premiere were a coveted prize, with prime seats commanding a princely sum of 12s 6d (62p) – a significant amount at the time. Even the cheaper seats, at 5 shillings (25p), offered an unparalleled cinematic experience.

The Southampton marquee, proudly boasting the "biggest screen in Britain," showcased two remarkable films during its residency.

First up was "Cinerama Holiday," a captivating journey that followed two couples as they explored the vibrant cities of Paris and Switzerland and the vast landscapes of America. With its diverse scenes, there was something to delight every member of the family: a glamorous Paris fashion show for the ladies, a thrilling bobsleigh run for the children, and the dazzling cabaret of the Paris Lido for the gentlemen.

But the highlight of "Cinerama Holiday" was undoubtedly the exhilarating flight with the Blue Angels, the US Navy's elite jet pilots. The audience gasped in unison as they experienced the heart-stopping moment when the pilot overshot the aircraft carrier runway. The tension was palpable until the jet was finally brought to a safe halt by the deck's trip wires, leaving viewers breathless with relief.

The second film to grace the giant screen was "Windjammer," a breathtaking maritime adventure that transported audiences to the high seas. Despite inclement weather and a brief delay due to an electrical fault, the crowds braved the elements, their enthusiasm undeterred. The queue for the 6 pm showing snaked its way through puddles, six people deep, a testament to the irresistible allure of Cinerama.

The Daily Echo, reporting on the event, captured the essence of the Cinerama experience: "The film runs from three projectors onto a huge curved screen, which gives the audience a feeling of actually taking part in scenes being shown." This immersive quality, combined with the sheer scale of the presentation, made Cinerama a truly unforgettable spectacle.

Cinerama's reign may have been relatively short-lived, but its impact on cinema was profound. It paved the way for future widescreen formats and reminded audiences of the magic that movies could create. For those fortunate enough to have witnessed it, the memory of Cinerama in Southampton's Mayflower Park remains a cherished reminder of a golden age of cinema.