In the heart of Gloucester, the Sherborne Cinema marked a decade of cinematic excellence with a jubilant weekend of film screenings. Nestled within the charming confines of an art-deco architectural masterpiece, this independent cinema stands as a beacon of cultural enrichment in the bustling city.
With a solitary staff member donning multiple hats – from ticket sales to serving refreshing drinks and delectable snacks, as well as kickstarting the movie magic – the Sherborne Cinema exudes a quaint charm that sets it apart from the modern multiplexes.
Owner and cinephile extraordinaire, Mark Cunningham, orchestrated a cinematic feast for the senses to commemorate this milestone occasion. Amongst the curated selection of timeless classics featured during the celebratory weekend was the enchanting “Cinema Paradiso,” a foreign gem that explores the transformative power of dreams through the lens of a man’s journey to open a cinema. The lineup also included cinematic treasures such as “Lady in a Van” and the iconic “Casablanca,” captivating audiences with their storytelling prowess.
In a heartwarming gesture of recognition, Mr. Cunningham was bestowed with the prestigious Mayor’s Medal and a certificate honoring his unwavering dedication and exceptional service to the city. His passion for preserving the cinematic heritage is reflected in every facet of the Sherborne Cinema’s soul-stirring ambiance.
The inception of this cinematic haven traces back to Mr. Cunningham’s serendipitous encounter with the historic building dating back to 1880 in Kingsholm. Captivated by its architectural allure, he seized the opportunity to acquire the semi-derelict structure after a failed deal with the Christadelphian church. Thus began his arduous yet rewarding journey of transforming a blank canvas into a mesmerizing ode to the golden age of cinema.
Drawing inspiration from the opulent art-deco era, Mr. Cunningham meticulously crafted an interior that captivates patrons from the moment they step foot into the cinema. Vibrant hues of purples, browns, and deep reds adorn the walls, infusing the space with an air of nostalgia and elegance reminiscent of bygone cinematic splendor.
The foyer serves as a portal to a bygone era, adorned with a vintage 1950s art-deco clock that stands as a timeless testament to the cinema’s enduring allure. Within the auditorium, statues hailing from the same era stand sentinel alongside resplendent ceiling chandeliers, enveloping moviegoers in an aura of grandeur and sophistication.
For Mr. Cunningham, the cinema is not merely a business venture but a labor of love, a sanctuary where cinematic dreams are brought to life. The tumultuous challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic tested the cinema’s resilience, yet Mr. Cunningham’s unwavering dedication and prudent management ensured its survival through the storm.
As the curtains rise on another chapter in the Sherborne Cinema’s
