Tyneside Cinema premieres its fundraising campaign

In addition, Tyneside Cinema building’s listed status presents its own unique challenges to maintain and adapt to the needs of modern audiences. It is in discussion with its landlord to achieve a rental that reflects the open market value of the premises rather than one that is linked to RPI (which is particularly crippling in the current environment) and leads to an unrealistic level of rent.

A better rent deal would help the cinema to continue to bring the very best of independent, blockbuster, foreign language and award-winning films to audiences in the region. In response to these various challenges, Tyneside Cinema is working closely with other UK independent cinemas to find new funding and operating models to protect the sector.

Simon Drysdale said: “As well as providing audiences with a genuine alternative to mainstream Hollywood movies, Tyneside Cinema and cinemas like it are a vital part of the UK film industry, championing the work of the new and up and coming film makers and supporting local talent.

“It is particularly fitting that Tyneside Cinema was founded by Dixon Scott, the great-uncle of stellar film directors Sir Ridley and Tony Scott. Preserving and building on that unique history is one of the driving forces behind our campaign to keep Tyneside Cinema alive.

“We are doing all we can to keep the cinema open and we are determined to save this vital and unique institution that people of Newcastle and the North East are so rightfully proud of.”

The trustees have already put in place a number of initiatives to help improve Tyneside Cinema’s financial picture, including changing operating hours and restructuring ticket pricing.

Following a review of staff costs, the cinema is also now considering restructuring its workforce and is entering into consultation with staff members about the potential for a small number of potential redundancies.

Mr Drysdale explained: “Losing colleagues is the last thing we want to do, but the economic climate, combined with low visitor numbers means we have little choice. By breathing in for a while we can weather the storm and we hope that, in the future, we will again be able to offer the full series of community and arts work we have been famous for.”

Tyneside’s operations were comprehensively overhauled three years ago following an independent investigation which was prompted by issues raised by staff at that time. Following the review, a new chair, board of trustees and senior management team were appointed.

Mr Drysdale said: “We acknowledge the mistakes identified by the independent investigation three years ago, but this is very much a new era for Tyneside Cinema and it is a time when we need the support of the fantastic North East public more than ever before.”

Tyneside Cinema is hoping that its rallying call to the region’s film lovers will help to secure its future and ensure that the final curtain doesn’t fall on this iconic cultural venue. Simon Drysdale said: “Right now, we ask people who want to help us to do two things – donate to our fundraising appeal and visit us as often as you can.

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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