Community Cinema offers the chance for people to get together with their neighbours, family and friends and build their own unique cinema experience, in their community. Screenings can take place anywhere and at a time and day to suit where the audience are. Film provides a social experience that can encourage debate, spark emotion and provide escapism. Our pop-up travelling cinema fits anywhere from a bungalow to a community hall.
“Our residents enjoy the interaction with other local people and it is a fantastic way of relieving loneliness for many who would otherwise not get out. Many residents stay after the film for a chat and the social aspect of a get together”.
The Community Cinema aims to:
- Support individuals, groups and organisations set up cinemas/ film clubs in their community.
- Assist with programming, encouraging promoters to consider independent, British, foreign language, classic, accessible and specialised film.
- Help to promote the cinemas and screenings and build an audience in their local area.
- Provide equipment and an experienced Coordinator to help the cinemas get off the ground.
We are currently working with four community groups in the Black Country. In 2018/19, we have worked with residents from the YMCA West Bromwich, Hawthorn Fields Neighbourhood Office, West Bromwich, The Lamp Arts/ Brownhills Community Association, Walsall and Big Local East Coseley. In addition, we often work with museums, libraries and promoters across Sandwell, Dudley, Walsall and Wolverhampton.
Interested in starting a Community Cinema or Film Club in your neighbourhood or community venue? We’re expanding the programme in 2019.
The Community Cinema programme is generously supported with funds from the Big Lottery Fund and Film Hub Midlands.
