Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle's beloved indie-cinema venue, has asked for donations after shutting due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Located on Pilgrim Street, Tyneside has "welcomed people of all backgrounds" for over 80 years. It is Newcastle's only independent cinema and the last remaining Newsreel theatre to be open full-time in the UK.
The lockdown could cause many independent businesses to close across the country
Tyneside is a staple among Newcastle students, partially due to the Young Tyneside card which allows anyone aged 15-24 to get £4.50 cinema tickets and 10% off at the venue's bars and restaurants.
Following government advice, Tyneside made the decision to close from 18 March to 13 April. On March 23, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a nationwide lockdown banning meetings of more than two people. It is currently unclear how long this will last.
This could cause a huge number of independent businesses to close across the country.
In an email to its customers, Tyneside Cinema stated that:
"These are tough times for all of us, and we'd like to say a heartfelt thank you for your continued support.
"It's hard for us to see our beloved venue currently closed. Tyneside Cinema is more than just a place of work for us; it's a community. We're missing the joyful atmosphere of friends and families enjoying a film or a meal out together. We miss the chatter of excited school children filling our foyer before one of our workshops. We miss the celebration of a happy couple tying the knot on their big day with us. We're missing all of you."
The possibility of Tyneside's closure has been widely discussed by students on Facebook
"We want to see Tyneside Cinema's doors open again when this is over, but truthfully, we might not be able to. We need your support to get us through this challenging period."
The possibility of Tyneside's closure has been widely discussed by students on Facebook.
A second-year student and film fan stated:
"Tyneside made sure that lower budget films that might not get a look in at somewhere like the Cineworld got the exposure it deserved. It also managed to have cheap tickets and a lovely atmosphere. It’s an absolute gem for students and older residents alike, and it would be an absolute shame to see it shut."
Film Soc President Patrick Harland agreed with this sentiment, telling the Courier:
"Tyneside is a magical place where the present and past of cinema mix, it's a safe haven for students with a passion for film. This fact that it's in such danger is heartbreaking and I would urge every person to do what they can to help save it"
To help Tyneside Cinema reopen its doors in the future, please click here to donate.
Featured Image: Joe Molander