LET’S STRAND TOGETHER
WITH YOUR SUPPORT WE CAN SAVE & TRANSFORM A MUCH-LOVED CINEMA FROM YESTERDAY INTO A STUNNING ARTS VENUE FOR TOMORROW
OUR VISION
A vibrant and iconic venue, opening the door to creative opportunities for everyone.
We are so fortunate to still have this jewel in East Belfast. It is such an iconic building and has a special place in my heart. COVER PHOTO BY FILLY CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY INSIDE COVER PHOTO BY NEAL CAMPBELL
JAMIE DORNAN
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PHOTO BY MARK ROWAN @TRAVELLERNORTHERNIRELAND
Strand Arts Centre charity took over the tenancy of this precious building in 2013. With support from local stakeholders including our principal funder, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, we managed to prevent its dereliction and meet evidenced need for arts provision in the area. Our busy arts programme, 90+ community partners and annual audiences of 60,000 have demonstrated an appetite for this combined film, live entertainment and workshop offer. The venue is truly a shared space – widely used by festivals, schools, charities, youth and community groups, and budding filmmakers get a thrill premiering their latest movie to friends and family.
The outcome has been a wide range of positive social impacts – from educational film clubs and workshops to confidence-nurturing performing arts classes, dementia-friendly screenings and so much more. Unfortunately, the scale of our impact is severely hampered by the limitations of the building, and its current state of disrepair threatens our very future. With significant investment, we could do even more. Without it, the Strand will be forced to close. Of our audience survey respondents
87%
ARE MORE LIKELY TO ATTEND A LIVE THEATRE OR MUSIC EVENT IF IT IS LOCAL TO THEM.
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HISTORY & HERITAGE
The Strand’s refurbishment is essential for the preservation of this landmark heritage building.
Opened in 1935, the Strand’s design was heavily inspired by its proximity to the shipyard with nautical influences of curved walls, and porthole windows and light fittings. Its architect was John McBride Neill whose prolific body of cinema work included the Curzon (Ormeau Road), the Majestic (Lisburn Road) and the Tonic (Bangor), sadly all now gone. Our built heritage is often taken for granted, but we must not lose Northern Ireland’s oldest cinema building — the only one remaining out of over 40 picture palaces in Belfast alone.
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A MAIN FEATURE WITHIN EAST BELFAST There is huge value in the social history of the Strand.
» It’s part of the DNA of many generations — parents taking their children will remember being taken by their own parents » It was to the Strand that many shipyard workers went on a Saturday night during the heyday of both cinema and Harland & Wolff » Many couples have fond memories of courting at the Strand » It was a beacon of hope and escape during the Second World War and the Troubles
» Our artistic programme often reflects local stories and provides a platform for local performers » The Strand is regarded as having a feeling of “family” amongst customers, concierges, projectionists, usherettes and artists over many years » And in a post-COVID world the desire to come together for collective experiences will be greater than ever
If we lost the Strand it would be a devastating blow for East Belfast. Generations of families have been through its doors, including my own. They deliver an outstanding programme for all ages. A renovated and reinvigorated Strand would be a massive asset for our local area and it can’t come soon enough. GAVIN ROBINSON MP
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PHOTO: MERCURY REV
A BUILDING IN NEED
The Strand is full of character, but the building requires extensive renovation to survive and meet growing demand for its activities. » Addressing leaks and urgent structural maintenance » Upgrading all of the building’s plumbing and electrics » Creating disabled access and services throughout the building » Improving the customer journey and flow – ease of access, levelling ground floor, improved signage, increased natural light, more and quality W/C’s
» Highlighting & reinstating heritage features » Providing live performance facilities to professional standards » Providing high quality workshop facilities » Creating attractive café bar space
It’s impossible to overstate the importance of the Strand for the city of Belfast, and for East Belfast in particular. The Strand has been here for 85 years and it’s always been adaptable. It’s been resilient. It’s managed to change with the times. GLENN PATTERSON, NOVELIST, SCREENWRITER, & STRAND CHAMPION
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TRANSFORMATION
With your support, we can completely transform this iconic and treasured building, and its overall impact.
Our mission is to restore the Strand in a way that maximises its heritage value as a cinema, oozing Art Deco glamour, but also delivers a high quality, sustainable, creative arts space.
200% MORE
EMPLOYMENT OF LOCAL ARTISTS LIVE THEATRE & MUSIC PERFORMANCES
155% MORE
DELIVERING MORE FOR THE FUTURE
ANNUAL FOOTFALL
EVENTS/ACTIVITIES COMPLEMENTING THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM
300%
400%
AUDIENCE NUMBERS FOR DEMENTIAFRIENDLY SCREENINGS
CREATIVE SKILLS DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS
CHARITABLE FUNDRAISERS HELD AT STRAND
MORE
MORE
500% MORE
HERITAGE TOUR VISITORS PROFESSIONAL THEATRE COMPANIES REHEARSING AT STRAND
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DRAMATIC PERFORMANCE SPACES
The sensational new designs will dramatically increase the number of events we can bring to East Belfast every year. THEATRE 1 250 SEATS Audiences will enjoy the nostalgia of sitting in the original cinema balcony that will be restored to its former Art Deco glory. New staging layouts will open up the possibilities of this space for theatre, music, comedy and literature.
THEATRE 3 60 SEATS Never shying away from our cinema roots, we will maintain a diverse programme of new, classic, cultural and educational films, and champion small, independent films too.
STUDIO 50 SEATS Small is beautiful! Our 50 seater will not only screen films, but also be used for THEATRE 2 160 SEATS more intimate cabaret gigs, and can be The original front stalls, Theatre 2 is hired for birthday parties, social occasions, a stunning auditorium with plenty business meetings and charity fundraisers. of atmosphere and pitch perfect acoustics, making any theatre In addition, we will improve backstage performance or film screening a facilities, add dressing rooms and truly unique experience. upgrade lighting and sound to make any experience of performing at the Strand an enjoyable one.
LINLEY HAMILTON & DANA MASTERS
BAY CITY ROLLERWORLD
DUKE SPECIAL
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PRINCE CHARMING: PRINCESS CHASER BY NISTARS
IMPACT
Welcoming more & bigger productions » Attract more first class musicians, bands and theatre companies
» Accommodate bigger casts, and touring productions with larger sets, additional props and costumes » Provide a platform for emerging local talent to try out new work in front of an audience » Diversify our live entertainment offer to appeal to the broadest possible audience (e.g., new drama, literature and tribute bands) East Belfast has an incredible legacy of producing artists of exceptional talent. Unfortunately it’s never had the facilities to match and incubate that talent, so the redevelopment of the Strand has huge potential. NOIRIN MCKINNEY, DIRECTOR OF ARTS DEVELOPMENT, ARTS COUNCIL OF NORTHERN IRELAND
» Increase the number of theatre productions aimed at children and families » Deliver theatre and arts projects that address social issues (e.g., plays about mental health) » Accommodate bigger amateur, youth and community theatre companies » Create unique spaces and deliver state of the art facilities that add plenty of character to all events hosted — film screenings, live performances, conferences and more
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WORKSHOP & EDUCATION SPACES
We’re not just the pictures anymore!
Creative learning will become a significantly enhanced part of the refurbished Strand’s offer, engaging 25,000 people annually — almost three times current participation levels.
Fantastic venue and my daughter loves the kids club and workshops on Saturdays. NOEL RAINEY
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WORKSHOP SPACE Two large and flexible workshop and rehearsal spaces will be a hive of activity throughout the day. Fully accessible with plenty of natural light, this will provide a stimulating environment in which to play, explore, learn and create. EDUCATION ROOMS Filmmaking and animation, music and photography are just some of the workshops that will ensure both children and adults develop their creative skills to the full.
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PHOTO BY JONATHAN RYDER
IMPACT
Better facilities will enable us to do so much more with the community.
» Meeting educational aims through our creative programme, linking with the school curriculum DRAMA DANCE DJ’ING YOGA LIFE DRAWING ANIMATION FILMMAKING PHOTOGRAPHY PRINTMAKING CREATIVE WRITING CRAFTING PLAY THERAPY
Having a designated arts space close to the school enriches our provision of the curriculum. STRANDTOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL
» Providing workshops for kids enhancing confidence and creativity » Enhancing parent/child bonds with arts and crafts activities » Adult evening classes — promoting wellbeing, reducing isolation and improving community ties » School group visits — facilities for classes of 30 to enjoy a full or half day visit to learn how theatres work; social history of cinema; and evolution of photography and projection » Community engagement projects — courses, workshops and events tailored to specific social needs
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SOCIABLE & ACCESSIBLE SPACES
Ensuring equality of opportunity. » Three lifts enabling access to all theatre and workshop spaces » Fully accessible backstage facilities ensuring equality of opportunity for disabled performers » Staff will be trained in dementia and disability awareness, and we will have bespoke activities to support the needs of these groups » An inviting and energetic licensed café bar with southfacing windows and outdoor terrace serving pastries, brunches and pre-show platters
» Breakout spaces throughout the building for meetings, pre-event receptions, fundraisers, parties and celebrations » A glazed projection box will provide audiences with a window into both the past and present of cinema exhibition » Stunning rooftop views will offer a breathtaking glimpse at the evolution of East Belfast — from our industrial heritage at Harland & Wolff to the emerging creative industries within Titanic Quarter
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IMPACT
The building will be an attractive destination for East Belfast residents and visitors.
» Delivering more activities and events for a larger number of seniors and disabled patrons (e.g., dementia-friendly, captioned and audiodescribed screenings and live performances) » Attracting more schools, charities, community groups and individuals and increasing the frequency and duration of their visits » Becoming a thriving and inspiring daytime space for people to work from or socialise » Providing weekly Heritage Tours of this beautiful building, illustrating the Strand’s social and architectural heritage with Strand Stories gathered from our National Lottery Heritage Fund project
The Strand has provided a terrific lifeline for older people in East Belfast. EAMON QUINN, ENGAGE WITH AGE
» Adding to East Belfast’s growing reputation as a desirable place to live, work and play, and partnering with other tourism providers, traders, hospitality and entertainment venues to help boost the local economy
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5
2 3
4
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THE STRAND IN PICTURES
1. Terri Hooley (centre) with Gary Lightbody and Nathan Connolly from Snow Patrol at the premiere of Good Vibrations. 2. Director Neil Jordan introduced a 20 year anniversary screening on 35mm of Interview with the Vampire.
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3. Actors Adrian Dunbar and Conleth Hill at the Belfast Film Festival premiere of Two Angry Men about East Belfast theatrical titans Sam Thompson and James Ellis.
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4. Local businessman Ronnie Rutherford ran the venue as Strand Variety for several years in the 1980s. Acts included Little and Large, Dana and The Nolans.
7 11 12
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7. Animation and filmmaking workshops allow children and young people to learn new skills while having fun. 8. The Greatest Showman Spectacular incorporated live dance performances before a Sing-A-Long screening. 9. NiStars has been the Strand’s resident youth performing arts company since 2013. 10. Children enjoyed the chance to write and perform their own acceptance speech at our Oscars® workshop.
5. Our annual Lantern Parade with Wandsworth Community Centre, EastSide Arts and Connswater Greenway is a major community event.
11. Dementia-friendly Silver Screenings of classic films provide a trip down movie memory lane for older people, including free transport for local nursing homes.
6. The Saturday Minors Club has revived a decades-old tradition of family time at the movies.
12. Don’t try this at home. Weekly Friday night Stranded! gigs provide a platform for emerging local talent.
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PROJECT DEVELOPMENT
STAGES OF FUNDRAISING AND DESIGN TIMELINE FROM JANUARY 2021
Solicitation of leadership and major gifts, Trusts and Foundations
Strand Arts Centre’s capital campaign is being led by a team who bring a wealth of experience to the project.
PROJECT TEAM Our board of trustees has a broad range of executive experience, skills and connections — banking, legal, community, civil engineering, and the creative industries. And our Chairman is Jonathan Hegan MBE, a Chartered Civil Engineer and the former Chairman of RPS Consulting Engineers (NI). Jonathan chaired the Board of Titanic Foundation during Titanic Belfast’s concept and construction phases. DESIGN TEAM An Integrated Consultant Team is led by Hall Black Douglas. This Belfast-based practice has won numerous architecture awards and designed many prestigious
MAY 2021
Begin RIBA Stages 2 & 3 SEPTEMBER 2021
High profile launch of Strand Together fundraising campaign for low level gifting and fundraising events
buildings including EastSide Visitor Centre, Mater Hospital Chapel, Omagh Hospital & Primary Care Centre and the Tropical Ravine at Botanic Gardens. CONSTRUCTION COSTS £4.6M Belfast City Council is the project lead and has contributed £1.8m catalyst funding. Department for Communities has also been involved throughout the process, contributing towards Economic Appraisal costs. It anticipates allocating a further £1.8m to the project via the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. We also gratefully acknowledge a grant of £60k from Ulster Garden Villages. But we urgently need other funders and individual donors to come on board to secure the future of the Strand.
FEBRUARY 2022
Planning approval granted FEBRUARY 2022
TIMESCALE RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Plan of Work is the definitive model for the design and construction process of buildings. The Strand has completed RIBA Stage 1 and will commence Stage 2 following confirmation of funding from Department for Communities.
Submit RIBA Stage 4 Technical Design MARCH 2022
Issue ITT (Invitation to tender) to contractors MAY 2022
RIBA Stage 5 Construction works commence OCTOBER 2023
RIBA Stages 6 & 7 Handover and Gala Opening
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SUMMARY SOURCES OF ANTICIPATED INCOME
SOURCE OF INCOME Strand Arts Centre investment to date Belfast City Council including £13.5k towards RIBA Stage 1 Dept. for Communities including £38k towards RIBA Stage 1
THIS IS WHERE YOU COME IN!
This project will inspire and excite for decades to come, but can only happen with your support.
CONFIRMED
PENDING
TOTAL
£29,500
0
£29,500
£1,813,500
0
£1,813,500
£38,000
£ 1,800,000 £1,838,000
Individual Giving Leadership & Major Gifts
–
£250,000
£250,000
Corporate Sector including naming rights
–
£140,000
£140,000
Trusts and Foundations already secured Ulster Garden Villages £60k
£60,000
£392,000
£452,000
Low Level Donations & Name a Seat campaign
–
£50,000
£50,000
Fundraising Events Community fundraising & merchandising
–
£27,000
£27,000
TOTAL
£1,941,000 £2,659,000 £4,600,000
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YOUR DONATION WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE LEVELS OF GIVING INDIVIDUAL DONORS STRAND RECEIVES **
YOU GIVE*
YOUR BENEFITS ***
TOP RATE HIGHER RATE BASIC RATE
£15,000 £20,000
£25,000
Living Legend (leadership gifts £20k+)
£13,750
Star Performer (Gold Level) major gifts £10k+
£6,875
£7,500
£10,000
£12,500
Silver plus option to host your own private event
Star Performer (Silver Level) major gifts £5k+
£3,438
£3,750
£5,000
£6,250
Bronze plus prominent recognition on donor board in foyer and priority booking for all Strand events
Star Performer (Bronze Level) major gifts £2k+
£1,375
£1,500
£2,000
£2,500
Invitation to Gala Re-Opening, naming on website, in souvenir opening programme & on a seat plaque in Theatre 1
*Gifted amounts for top and higher rate taxpayers reflect the sum after you reclaim tax at year end. Strand Arts Centre can provide further details on how to reclaim VAT on charitable gifts.
**Amount received assumes that when you donate as an individual you gift aid your donation.
Gold plus membership of Chairman’s Circle with invitations to exclusive events & option to host tour for guests prior to re-opening
*** We will acknowledge your gift anonymously if preferred
DONATION EXAMPLES ACROSS 2 YEARS £2,000 for a basic rate taxpayer equates to 8 quarterly payments of £250 £5,000 for a higher rate taxpayer after tax reclaim equates to 24 monthly payments of £156.25 £10,000 for a top rate taxpayer after tax reclaim equates to 2 annual instalments of £3,437.50
If you pay through a company, you can claim tax relief by deducting the value of your donations from your total business profits before you pay tax. Donations can be paid in one lump sum, or annually, quarterly or monthly across one or two financial years. Payment tables available upon request. Naming Opportunities available from £25k and above. Options available upon request.
Donate today & create a lasting legacy
It brings out the confidence in children... to watch them grow, to get up on that stage to perform… it’s just the proudest moment any parent can have. LYNN GUEST, NISTARS PARENT
To discuss making a gift to the campaign, please contact us as follows: MIMI TURTLE Chief Executive +44 (0)7919 387012 mimi@strandartscentre.com
RICHARD GASTON Fundraising Manager
Great atmosphere, amazing architecture and very family friendly.
+44 (0)7903 085533 richard@strandartscentre.com
DAN BUCKLEY PHOTO: CINDERELLA BY NISTARS
Love this place. Loved it when I was a kid and love it even more now. It is a community treasure. MICHAEL BOYD
152-154 Holywood Road, Belfast, BT4 1NY +44(0)28 9065 5830 STRANDARTSCENTRE.COM
REGISTERED CHARITY NO. NIC104893
STRANDARTSCENTRE @STRANDARTSCENTR STRANDARTSCENTRE
STRAND ARTS CENTRE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Jonathan Hegan MBE (Chair) Brian Gaffney Jenna Hall Scott Kennedy Maurice Kinkead Glenn Leyburn David Price Claire Baillie Ritchie STRAND CHAMPIONS Dan Gordon David Holmes Marie Jones OBE Glenn Patterson