The Commodore Cinema in Ryde is just one of hundreds of arts, culture, heritage organisations and independent cinemas across England who will receive a share of £107 million from the Culture Recovery Fund.
The Commodore Ryde has been awarded £53,035. Open since the 1930s and the only independent cinema on the Isle of Wight, the Commodore offers affordable cultural entertainment for families and people on the Island.
Watson: Almost certainly have closed during the last year
Adam Watson, Manager of Commodore Cinema Ryde said,
“We’re delighted to have received this grant from the Culture Recovery Fund. It means that we’re able to continue doing what we love, providing great value cinema for all on the Island. The Commodore is an independent, family run business so this money really will make all the difference.
“The Culture Recovery Fund has meant that The Commodore has been able to remain open. Without the fund The Commodore would almost certainly have closed during the last year and an important cultural asset for the Island would have been lost. We’re delighted to report that, since reopening in May our audience numbers have steadily grown week-on-week.
“It’s been heartening to see people’s readiness to return to the Cinema experience. Above all we want you to stay safe, enjoy your great value for money cinema and we hope to see you very soon.”
As announced by News OnTheWight on Friday, as part of the Culture Recovery Fund, Arts Council England awarded £49,633 to Stonecrabs Theatre and £35,000 to Ventnor Exchange.
Roberts: Vital to the survival and recovery of independent cinemas
Ben Roberts, Chief Executive, British Film Institute said,
“Traditionally, this time of year brings a wealth of culture to the big screen for people up and down the country as local cinemas offer seasonal classics, and new British films and blockbusters.
“The Culture Recovery Fund has been vital to the survival and recovery of independent cinemas, enabling them to contribute to their high streets and communities, and crucially be there to welcome back their audiences.”
Continuity support grants
£14 million in continuity support grants will be awarded to 120 previous Culture Recovery Fund recipients in the South East, administered by Arts Council England, the British Film Institute, Historic England and National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Helping organisations survive and allowing them to resume programmes and events, the funding will mean people can get back to enjoying everything they have to offer.
Henley: A massive vote of confidence
Darren Henley, Chief Executive, Arts Council England said,
“This continued investment from the Government on an unprecedented scale means our theatres, galleries, music venues, museums and arts centres can carry on playing their part in bringing visitors back to our high streets, helping to drive economic growth, boosting community pride and promoting good health.
“It’s a massive vote of confidence in the role our cultural organisations play in helping us all to lead happier lives.”
Emergency Resource Support programme
Providing access to emergency funding throughout the winter period, the Emergency Resource Support programme will be reopened.
This will give more applicants at imminent risk of financial failure an opportunity to bid for support, protecting even more organisations so that they can continue to create jobs and contribute to the economy. The application window will reopen soon.
