Christopher Saunders was the Creative Producer and Project Manager on the restoration and reimagination of the Regal Cinema in Birmingham Gardens, Newcastle. The much loved cinema had been closed for five years and was in danger of being sold off to developers as a residential building sight.

Christopher adopted a community engagement and participatory approach that involved local trades and people with all manner of skills contributing to the restoration at reduced rates. Businesses donated building materials and equipment. Community members were encouraged to be involved as volunteers and advocates. This created a great sense of community buy in and ownership.

The building restoration was delivered above and beyond expectations on a very limited budget. The addition of cutting edge digital projection and audio equipment, sourced from George Miller’s post production studio and cinema in Sydney, brought the character filled old cinema into the 21st century.

New screen, digital projector and audio system installed

Community volunteers pitching in to assist

Chairs re-upholstered

Wall linings replaced; floors polished; building repainted inside and out

The Regal is once again much loved and operates every week with a strong local following.