Strand ArtsCentre

The Strand first opened as a cinema on the Holywood Road in December 1935, one of two independent cinemas left in Belfast alongside Queen's Film Theatre. The not-for-profit Strand Arts Centre charity took over the tenancy in 2013 and now runs the art deco building as a four-screen venue, mixing new releases with classic and world cinema, live theatre and music. A Silver Screenings strand caters to older audiences with daytime showings, while a free weekly film club runs for children and young people, and the in-house NiStars group offers performing arts training. The charity has welcomed guests including the director Neil Jordan and the scientist Richard Dawkins for public conversations tied to screenings. The building, constructed as a purpose-built cinema, retains much of its original art deco interior, and the trust that runs it is raising funds toward a full refurbishment.