Strand Arts Centre delivers a diverse programme of creative and cultural activity to improve the social mobility and quality of life for the people of East Belfast and beyond. It occupies & preserves Northern Ireland's only surviving traditional art-deco cinema. Its programme has a focus on film but also includes theatre and music, both live performances & skills development workshops. The Strand is an inclusive, shared space, proud of its economically, socially & politically diverse audience.

Why the community needs us
Our programme and shared space is designed to inspire, educate and entertain our patrons. East Belfast has exceptionally high levels of educational underachievement and has recently seen an increase in incidents of social unrest and hate crime. This same area is also home to many of NI's successful film & sound producers, art directors and other creatives who's work our programme highlights & celebrates. Our vision is to restore our iconic building maximising our social and economic benefits.

Our impact on the community
As the only dedicated arts venue in East Belfast many of the activities and festivals we deliver would not otherwise be available to this part of the city. We work with audience of all ages – from mums and toddlers dance classes to Silver Screenings of classic movies.
During 2018/19 Strand Arts Centre delivered the following:
Total footfall of 75,302 people
Audience of 17,875 for live performances (theatre, music, talks)
8,469 individuals in creative skills classes
Supported 596 individual artists
Hosted 92 community or church groups & schools
Brought 25 festivals to East Belfast

Name a Seat campaign  Our refurbishment campaign will completely transform this iconic and treasured building, and its overall impact – maintaining and preserving its 1930s heritage but delivering spaces and activities that meet the needs of our audiences today and tomorrow.   You can click one of the options shown of £10, £20 or £30 if you wish to pay for 1, 2 or 3 seats. Please make sure the box marked ‘make it a monthly donation’ is ticked. We will cancel your donation after 18 months.If you wish to pay in one lump sum, insert the figure of £180 and make sure the monthly donation option is unticked.Please DO NOT tick the box about donating anonymously or we will be unable to contact you, but make sure you DO tick the box about Local Giving sharing your contact details with the charity. 

This rate of £180 is for individuals, charities and community groups. Please contact the Strand on 9065 5830 if you wish to make a corporate donation.