History of BAFTA/LA and BAFTA London

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts, Los Angeles (BAFTA/LA) was officially inaugurated, its Board of Directors elected, by the membership on September 13, 1987, with the full support and encouragement of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA).

History Of The British Academy Of Film And Television Arts

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts was established in London in 1947. A registered charity, BAFTA now has over 6,000 members, elected by Council for their substantial creative contribution to film and/or television, with branches in Manchester, Glasgow and Cardiff.

In 1976, as a result of many generous donations and endowments, BAFTA was able to move its headquarters to No. 195 Piccadilly in London's West End, which was originally built in 1882 as The Galleries for The Royal Institute of Painters and Watercolours. BAFTA's facilities include the 213 seat Princess Anne Theatre, the 30-seat Run Run Shaw Theatre, a bar, restaurant and meeting rooms. There is an extensive program of screenings, lectures and discussions for the members, while over 100,000 people a year attend BAFTA for conferences, seminars and special events.

BAFTA hosts an annual film and television awards show where its members honor motion pictures and television programs. Founder members of BAFTA include Sir Alexander Korda, Sir David Lean, and Michael Powell.