A new cinema is set to open in Wallington, screening independent films and the latest Hollywood blockbusters.

The movie theatre will be based at The Brook cafe and bar and is expected to seat around 25 people.

They will host daytime sessions for children as well as screening the work of local film-makers.

Blockbusters will be aired 10-weeks after they hit the mainstream cinemas and the venue will also show classic titles.

The organisors are thinking about running a Friday evening session for secondary school pupils.

Thea Brook, who owns the cafe and bar with her husband Andy, said: "We want to make this all about the community. After all they have donated the money.

"We will support local film-makers, hold film festivals, and screen music videos from local bands.

"We think this is important because there is no other cinema in the area.

"Now people in Wallington will have somewhere to go if they want to watch a movie.

"They can also make requests about what they want to see, and what special events we should host."

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Entertainment venue: The bar also has an open-mic session on Sundays

Mr and Mrs Brook launched a fundraising campaign so they could buy cinema equipment.

The location sits between Wallington High School for Girls and Wallington County Grammar.

The public can donate through a range of different packages, receiving a deal at the theatre in return.

Ten pounds will see your name on a dedication board and get you a free ticket to an opening day party.

And £25 will get you priority booking for a year and 10% off food and drink when visiting the cinema.

Those who donate £100 get private use of the facility for a night, and can invite up to 24 friends.

So far The Brook has pulled in £1,628 of their £2,000 target, and the doors are set to swing open on May 26.

The opening marks the same day the Wallington Odeon opened in 1934, which shut down 23 years later.

The first film shown there was Love, Life and Laughter, which has inspired the theme for The Brook's launch.

On May 26 they will air 'Stardust' under the 'love' category, 'Big Fish' to represent 'life, and 'Shawn of the Dead' for laughter.

Dates for screenings and events are yet to be confirmed, but will be advertsied on the venue's website.

For more details visit: http://www.the-brook.co.uk/ or call 020 3620 5237. To donate visit: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/help-us-bring-cinema-to-the-brook


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