The Strand Cinema celebrates 85th birthday

by Q Radio News

One of Belfast's most iconic cinemas is celebrating its 85th birthday.

The Strand, in the east of the city, was first opened in 7 December 1935 by then Lord Mayor Sir Crawford McCullagh.

The picture house is the only survivor from the 'golden age' of cinema when Belfast alone boasted over 40 picture palaces.

Architect John McBride Neill’s design was heavily influenced by The Strand’s proximity to Harland & Wolff shipyard.

The exterior of the building is shaped like the bow of a ship, and the nautical theme continues inside with curved walls, porthole windows and light fittings.

The venue has more recently been used as an arts centre.

Its Chief Executive Mimi Turtle said: “The Strand has adapted to community needs over the decades and has enjoyed spells both as a cinema and a variety theatre.

"No longer a commercial cinema, the Strand Arts Centre charity took over the tenancy of the building in 2013 with the support of key stakeholders including our principal funder, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. The ambition was to meet an evidenced need for more arts provision in the area.

“Through our Strand Stories project we want to encourage Strand audiences, past and present, to share their memories of, and future aspirations for, this treasured East Belfast venue. I know lots of people out there will have great stories to tell about visits to the Strand. Many went through the life cycle of attending the Saturday Minors Club as children, progressing to first dates in the back row and subsequently bringing their own children, and very often their grandchildren too. And let’s not forget the dozens of projectionists, usherettes and concierges over the years.”

Strand Arts Centre is planning a £4.6m transformation in the near future thanks to £1.8m catalyst funding from Belfast City Council.

The Chief Executive added: “The Strand is full of character and we want to preserve and promote its heritage but the building requires extensive renovation to improve facilities for audiences and performers, including disabled access throughout, and to meet the demand for youth and education activities. We are hugely grateful to the council for its vote of confidence and much-needed investment in the local community.

Noirin McKinney, Director of Arts Development at the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said: “We warmly congratulate the Strand Arts Centre on their 85th birthday and are proud to support them in providing a wonderful range of arts activities to people of all ages in east Belfast.  

"The venue itself is an Art Deco gem and we wish the team continued success as they embark upon an impressive refurbishment to make the building even more inviting.”