A HUGE £10,000 donation has been made to Harwich's Electric Palace as bosses say they are now “hopeful” of reaching their target for a replacement projector.
The Electric Palace is one of the oldest and least altered cinemas in the world, opening in 1911, and has recently hosted screenings with actors Clive Owen and Lucy Boynton.
The screenings were part of the cinema’s new fundraising drive - the ‘#OurElectricPalace Appeal’ – which is seeking to initially raise £70,000 for essential repairs to ensure structural integrity in the grade II* listed building.
The Harwich Haven Authority, which keeps the waters around Harwich running safely, has now also donated £10,000 to the appeal.
Sarah West, chief executive of Harwich Haven Authority, said: “Along with Ha’penny Pier, the Electric Palace is probably the most iconic landmark in Harwich.
“Steeped in history the cinema provides members of the community with access to a film experience without having to travel miles.
“We were keen that our donation benefitted both parties and we’re excited to offer our employees, and their families, the chance to use the facilities at the Electric Palace.”
Employees and family members working at authority will receive discounted cinema tickets as part of the deal, which is hoped will increase visitor numbers for the cinema.
Employees have also agreed to volunteer their time to the Electric Palace to help with a sales strategy and marketing.
Michael Offord, operations manager at the Electric Palace, added: “We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of Harwich Haven Authority and we are now more hopeful of reaching our target goal of £70,000.
“The cinema has experienced many ups and downs over the years, including in 2006 being placed on the English Heritage’s ‘At Risk’ Register.
“However, we are lucky to have a great team of volunteers who continue to give their time to keep the cinema going. However, the requirement to replace the projector is becoming more urgent and we are very concerned.
“Plans are in place to extend the film programme and open on additional days during the week, so we have everything crossed that we can raise the necessary money.”
To donate visit https://electricpalace.com/support-us/donate/
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