A closure-hit independent cinema is being reborn – but it needs extra cash before it can open its doors.
Stoke Film Theatre, which has lain dormant since it closed three years ago due to the Covid lockdowns, is putting out an appeal to local businesses for support.
The venue was previously situated on Staffordshire University’s College Road campus.
Now the popular cinema, which shows a range of mainstream, independent and foreign films, has found a new home at the Wade Conference Centre based at the North Staffordshire Medical Institute in Hartshill.
However it is struggling to raise the final £40,000 of its fund-raising target.
Volunteers need to kit out the new premises and money is needed for a new screen costing £17,000, a reconditioned server and a large amount of wiring and electrical work.
The Film Theatre – full title The North Staffordshire Regional Film Theatre – was established jointly with Staffordshire University (then The Polytechnic) and the BFI (British Film Institute) in 1974. It is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary this year.
Grace Jordan, Director of Stoke Film Theatre, said: “Contributions to our appeal aren’t just about bringing independent cinema back to Stoke-on-Trent; they are also about reviving a cultural hub that means so much to so many.
“Our Film Theatre isn’t just a place to watch films; it’s a gathering space for the community, a source of shared experiences.
“We are a registered charity, run by volunteers, and we’re looking to the community for support.”
Donations can be made at: https://justgiving.com/campaign/stokefilmtheatre
Cheques made out to North Staffordshire Regional Film Theatre can be sent to: Grace Jordan, Director, Stoke Film Theatre, The Wade Centre, Hartshill Road, ST4 7NY.
