A closed cinema is getting a makeover and upgrade to be reborn as a queer focused cinema, The Arzner.
The Arzner will programme queer cinema
Once reopened, the cinema’s programming will focus on queer and independent films. The refreshed cinema will showcase new releases, prolific films that progressed queer cinema and lesser-known titles that have been overlooked or forgotten. Full programming and details will be available soon.
The Arzner will offer a fully stocked bar
The cinema is to be refreshed by Simon Burke and Piers Greenlees, the pair responsible for the successful revival of The Rising Sun pub on Harper Road, now known as The Rising SE1. There will be specialist mixologists, a well-stocked bar, and indoor and outdoor seating.
The Arzner is named after the film director Dorothy Arzner
Arzner was an incredibly important voice in Hollywood’s golden age. She was an openly queer filmmaker and the only female director between 1934-1943, who is also credited with inventing the boom mic. She directed many films including Christopher Strong (1933), with Katharine Hepburn and Dance, Girl, Dance (1940), featuring Lucille Ball.
“an unlikely-female-buddy burlesque movie that conceals a withering attack on the male gaze under its showgirl wardrobe of sequins and feathers”
Variety about Dance, Girl, Dance
Southwark is proudly home to one of the largest queer populations in the country
The Rising SE1 is currently the only permanent LGBTQI+ venue in the area. The addition of more queer spaces, and cultural spaces (Ed: with more to be announced soon, so watch this space!) will be a substantial benefit for all Southwark residents.
“As queer spaces continue to close, we’ve been blown away by the reception of The Rising SE1. We’re ready to bring our experience, expertise and film background to The Arzner to create more queer spaces in the area. We’re delighted for this to be a fully accessible venue too, which is critical to ensuring people have equal access to entertainment spaces.”
Simon Burke, Co-Founder of The Arzner
“The UK film industry is globally respected and responsible for producing some of the most notable LGBTQ+ films. We are excited to provide a new cultural home for queer cinema in the capital.“
Piers Greenlees, Co-Founder of The Arzner
All images supplied.
