Earlier this week it was announced that Jersey’s only cinema is to close indefinitely, with Cineworld confirming it will temporarily suspend operations across all of its US and UK theatres from today.
Senator Sam Mézec and St Brelade Deputy Montfort Tadier have spoken out about the importance of having such a facility for Islanders.
When asked whether he would commit to the government supporting a long-term cinema in the Island, Chief Minister John Le Fondré said: ‘As far as I am concerned there should definitely be a cinema on the Island for Islanders,’ adding he could ‘commit’ that the government would help to provide a facility, but would not be in favour of the government managing a provision run by the private sector.
‘In principal, if it was to become an issue I do believe we should make sure there is a long-term facility on the Island, but we are not at that stage yet.’
Islander Stefan Rousseau – also known as DJ Stefunk – has said that he is planning to set up an independent theatre, having already run cinema nights at the Savoy Jersey through his ‘Cinestef’ company.
‘It’s very early days – the idea has been in my head for a while,’ said Mr Rousseau, who has also been involved in attempts to introduce a drive-in cinema to the Island. ‘I will need support, but the idea is to have a room with high-end, quality equipment and put on a wide range of movies.’
‘There is a need for this,’ he added. ‘We do this at the Savoy but my concept eventually is to provide a cultural hub in the Island.’
