Three independent cinemas in Meirionnydd will receive funding from Film Hub Wales to help them survive the coronavirus pandemic.
Since the pandemic began, many sites have been unable to open to the public. With an uncertain future still ahead, many have been working to diversify their businesses, develop robust health and safety procedures and secure alternative sources of income.
The Magic Lantern’s Annie Grundy said: “Getting this funding enables us to wrap a big ball of cotton wool around the British, independent and foreign language films in our programme which in the old days before the corona-coaster we underwrote ourselves.
“It ensures that even with a much-reduced capacity (we have gone from 280 to 36 available seats due to social distancing), our audience can rock up to see an eclectic mix of fantastic films on screen at the Magic Lantern.”
Cellb will reconnect audiences in Blaenau Ffestiniog to the wider world post Covid-19, by exploring culture and climate change on screen.
They say they aim to create a safe space where the community can travel the world through film, at affordable prices.
They will start local - with the history of Wales - and then take audiences on a journey to Patagonia, Latin America and beyond, where they will discover hidden languages and cultures.
As a youth-led enterprise, they work to expand access to the arts for young people in Blaenau but also support elderly audiences through regular accessible screenings, forums and gift packs to keep them connected during isolation.
The Dragon Theatre is taking a safe, steady approach to audiences returning, through diverse, non-mainstream content.
Using Filmbank’s booking deal to show eight films from January to March, they will offer 12 seats per screening with ‘bubbles’ in their stalls and balcony.
Films for older audiences, with smaller bubbles will be introduced, enabling regular and new audiences to enjoy the cinema again.
Hana Lewis, strategic manager of Film Hub Wales said: “We need to recognise the impact of cinemas in our communities and the potential loss we will all face if they close as a result of the pandemic.
“Independent venues have gone above and beyond to help those in most need. They have done this whilst also planning for their own uncertain futures, interrogating their business plans, reviewing their approaches to access and equality and exploring environmental sustainability.
“These funds will help them restart crucial social, economic and cultural provision through on-screen activity.”