Central Cinemas celebrated 15 years of operation this past week with events hosted that attracted over 200 locals.

Events kicked off with a sneak peak for its volunteers on Monday (June 20) over afternoon tea.

“It was fun watching people’s jaws drop as they came into the room and saw how fabulous it looks now,” Deputy chair Rachel Jones said.

“The mural was a particular hit. It gives the room a real wow factor.”

On Tuesday night, cinema members were invited along for an exclusive look. 

Their celebration included the launch of a book commemorating the hard work that has gone into establishing and maintaining the entirely volunteer-run cinema, one of only a handful of not-for-profit movie theatres in New Zealand.

Written by journalist Louise Joyce, the book chronicles the first 15 years of the cinema’s history.

Representatives from local businesses attended Wednesday night’s event and were also impressed with the foyer upgrade. Many signed up as sponsors on the night.

“We have this amazing big screen and we thought it would be a great idea to open it up to local businesses for advertising,” cinema committee chair Karin Bowen said.

“We weren’t sure how they would respond as we know Covid has been tough on everyone, so we are thrilled that we got so much support.”

“One of the lovely things about living in a small town like Alexandra is that local businesses and not-for-profits can work together for the benefit of the community.”

The movie-going public got their first experience of the new ambience on Thursday night. Doors opened early so ticket holders could admire the makeover and enjoy a slice of birthday cake from She Bakes Bakery.

While patron Sam Neill has been out of town during the festivities he has congratulated Central Cinema on reaching the 15-year milestone and appeared on the big screen in Jurassic World: Dominion.

All moviegoers can now enjoy the new box office area thanks to the support of Central Otago Community Trust, Central Lakes Trust, Aotearoa Foundation, Pub Charity and the tireless volunteers at the cinema. 

If you would like to become a sponsor for as little as $ 19 per month which includes tickets to the movies and invites to events, please email Rachel Jones.