Wisbech’s The Luxe Cinema celebrates fifteen years with special programme of films and events

A Wisbech cinema is celebrating 15 years of movie magic this week and inviting visitors to watch some of its biggest films.

Running between this Friday and Thursday, April 25, The Luxe Cinema is offering a special film and event programme to celebrate.

Formerly the Women’s Institute Hall, The Luxe was transformed by Burleigh Ibbott which became the first in town since The Unit One (formerly The Hippodrome) and The Empire stopped screening films years earlier.

Nathan Smith, general manager of the Luxe, said: “A lot has happened in those 15 years, but we are still here, and we are pleased to have a special film and event programme to celebrate.”

The Luxe, which is located on Alexandra Road, has “always striven to show the biggest blockbusters, the most incredible indie films, short films and documentaries”, he said.

The team has also brought filmmakers to town for Q&A sessions as well as offering event cinema - hosting ballet, theatre, opera and concerts.

Shanty singers, local acting troupes, comedians and magicians have also performed on stage at the cinema.

Nathan said: “We have always seen ourselves as part of the heart of the town and believe that by supporting our communities with fundraising efforts and ensuring that we champion local people - that has paid off.”

Plans for further improvements to the building are in the process of being laid out.

The movies that will be shown in the programme of events include Skyfall (The Luxe’s biggest film in terms of attendance), Robot Dreams, The Smallest Show on Earth, Classic Living Dead Double Feature, National Theatre Live: Nye, The Royal Ballet: Swan Lake and The Grand Finale: Alice Howe & Freebo - Live on Stage.

“When I was asked to take over the management of The Luxe, I did not hesitate,” Nathan said.

“For years it had been a cinema I loved to visit, and from 2015 it was my place of work.

“The whole team then – and now – focused on the guest experience above anything else and it was certainly a recipe for success.

“We were identified as the tenth best-reviewed cinema in the country a few years ago, which speaks volumes about the efforts of those involved.

“To be here today – after some challenging years – celebrating 15 years of showing films, serving popcorn and entertaining the fine folk of Fenland (and beyond) is a distinct honour and privilege.

“To have such a varied programme of events – which was designed specifically to capture the range of titles we have screened over the years – available to us is a treat.

“I cannot wait to celebrate alongside my team and our beloved guests.”

Find out more about the upcoming events via https://wisbech.picturedromecinemas.co.uk or by calling 01945 232050.

Reporting by Lola Jackson