Tyneside Cinema is set to embark on a transformative journey following a substantial £700,000 funding boost from the North East Social Investment Fund, managed by Northstar Ventures. This financial injection marks the beginning of a new era for the iconic venue, which has been a cornerstone of cultural life in Newcastle and the North East.
The funding comes just over three months after Nic Greenan took the helm as CEO of Tyneside Cinema. Greenan expressed his excitement about the future, stating, “Securing this funding gives us the solid foundation we need to not just continue Tyneside’s incredible history but to build a vibrant and exciting future. I’ve been absolutely bowled over by the love people have for this place and the passion they have for what it does – there really is nowhere else like it.”
Naomi Allen Seales from Northstar Ventures echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the cinema’s broader impact. “Tyneside Cinema is far more than just a building: it’s a cultural institution and a charitable organization whose activities and influence spread into communities right across the region and further afield. We are delighted to have been able to play a part in the future of a regionally important cultural icon.”
The funding will support a major turnaround plan aimed at expanding the cinema’s cultural offerings while working towards self-sufficiency and long-term sustainability. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that Tyneside Cinema remains a vibrant hub for film and other cultural experiences.
Tyneside Cinema has also received new grant funding from the County Durham Community Foundation and support from Newcastle City Council, among others. The cinema extends its heartfelt thanks to these organizations and to its audiences for their unwavering support during the #LoveTynesideCinema Campaign last year.
Greenan expressed gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the cinema’s journey, saying, “Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who donated money, came to see a film, or visited the Tyneside Bar Cafe. Our aim now is to ensure that there are even more reasons to come to the Tyneside with a new program of events with some surprises up our sleeves. Despite the love and loyalty, we can only keep the doors open if people utilize the venue.”
While film will remain the primary focus, Tyneside Cinema has ambitious plans to offer other unique experiences. The cinema is also looking to expand its hires and events business and grow its work within the community, fostering creativity and creative sector skills in people of all ages.
Earlier this year, Tyneside Cinema launched a Screenwriter in Residence program in association with New Writing North and the North East Combined Authority. This six-month residency offers a writer the opportunity to create new artistic work based at the cinema. More projects along these lines are expected to be announced soon.
“We have a lot of great ideas on ways we can enrich the cultural and creative life of the city and the region – as well as give people a cracking night out – and we can now start the process of delivering those plans,” Greenan said. “It’s such an exciting time to be part of the Tyneside and we want as many people as possible to join us.”
The cinema promises more exciting developments in the coming months as it continues to strengthen its position as a cultural beacon in the region. The support from the North East Social Investment Fund and other partners is a testament to the cinema’s enduring significance and the community’s commitment to its future.
As Tyneside Cinema enters this new era, it remains dedicated to providing a diverse range of cultural experiences and fostering a sense of community. The funding boost is not just a financial lifeline but a vote of confidence in the cinema’s ability to innovate and thrive in the years to come.
