The first cinema in Penza opened in 1907 at the site of the modern Denis Davydov Square and was very popular among both locals and visitors to the city.

More than a hundred years ago, there was a large wooden building here known as the Electric Theatre Troitsky, named after its founder. Cinemas of that era were significantly different from modern ones. Firstly, they did not show long films, as they had not yet been made. Secondly, audiences were often shown regular newsreels, such as scenes of Nicholas II driving a car or a steamboat sailing on the river. Despite this, people were thrilled, as for many it was their first experience of watching video. There were so many visitors that staff sometimes had to borrow chairs from the neighboring restaurant 'Hermitage' for additional viewers. Mr. Troitsky took into account the interests of various social groups and used different tricks to increase profits.

On Sunday screenings, children were attracted with free lollipops, students were given discounts, and for adults, the 'Parisian genre' was offered, meaning erotic films. These spicy films were shown from midnight, and the hall was always full. Even women hurried to see such films.