Stirling’s Macrobert Arts Centre is among 30 Scottish independent cinemas and two touring operators to share in £3.55m of emergency funds.
The cash to tackle the financial gap as a result of Covid-19 comes from the Scottish Government’s Independent Cinema Recovery and Resilience Fund and The National Lottery, through Screen Scotland.
The Macrobert will receive £111,244 to help it operate in the short-term within Scottish Government guidelines.
Julie Ellen and Grahame Reid from the Macrobert Arts Centre said: “This Resilience Fund award will make it possible for Macrobert staff to be reachable by phone, offering a reassuring voice to help our community access the cinema, give clear information about our Covid-safe arrangements and to pass the time of day a little with those who prefer someone to help with their booking.
“The additional screenings that the fund will support gives us greater scope for a more diverse range of films whilst maintaining social distancing.
“It is a vital boost for independent cinema at Macrobert Arts Centre.”
Mid Scotland and Fife Labour MSP Claire Baker said: “Although independent cinemas are beginning to re-open and welcome back audiences to enjoy all they have to offer, it is still in a restricted way.
“I very much welcome this fund that will support independent cinemas in our communities, and see them continue to provide a quality and entertaining experience.”
Cabinet Secretary for Culture Fiona Hyslop said: “We understand the severe impact this pandemic has had on businesses across Scotland, including our independent cinemas which play such an important role in communities across the country.
“We have had to make some really difficult decisions recently that will impact on cinemas which have worked so hard to re-open safely, but we have to put health considerations above everything else and I hope this funding, along with the business support that will be available, will help independent cinemas cope with all the challenges they face.
“Culture is vitally important to all of our lives, and we are determined to do everything within our powers to see the sector through this crisis.
“This fund is part of the ongoing financial support the Scottish Government is making available to the sector.”
