One hundred years of cinema history, countless film screenings, and generations of moviegoers – Smiltene Cinema celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. To mark this significant milestone, a historical exhibition has been created and will be on display throughout November in the corridor leading to the cinema hall at Smiltene Municipality Culture Centre. The anniversary year also marks a new chapter in the cinema’s development – from now on, the cinema hall will be available for private hire, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy a film of their choice on the big screen.

For a century, cinema in Smiltene has been more than just a place to watch films. It has been a place where generations have come together, experienced their first cinema visits, enjoyed the latest releases from around the world, and created memories that have lasted to this day. Films, technology, and viewing habits have changed over the years, but cinema continues to play an important role in Smiltene’s cultural life.

Cinema History Comes to Life in a Special Exhibition

To celebrate its centenary, Smiltene Cinema has prepared a historical exhibition featuring photographs, historical records from different periods, and exhibits related to the cinema’s operations. The exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to explore the development of Smiltene Cinema, discover lesser-known historical facts, and remember the people who have shaped the town’s cinema culture over the years.

The exhibition will be on display throughout November in the corridor leading to the cinema hall at Smiltene Municipality Culture Centre. It will offer visitors an opportunity not only to explore the history of cinema but also to reminisce about their first cinema visits and memorable experiences associated with this important part of Smiltene’s cultural life.

The exhibition has been made possible thanks to the generous support of several individuals and institutions. Smiltene Cinema extends its heartfelt gratitude to Smiltene Municipality Library for preserving valuable historical materials in its local history collection and helping to compile them, to Gunārs Liedags for his many years of dedication and contribution to Smiltene’s cinema culture, and to Aivars Pugejs, a resident of Balvi Municipality, for his assistance in gathering exhibits for the exhibition.

The collected materials offer valuable insights not only into the history of cinema but also into the development of Smiltene’s cultural life, helping to preserve important historical records for future generations.

A New Opportunity – Private Cinema Screenings for Your Special Occasions

Smiltene Cinema’s centenary is not only an opportunity to look back at the past but also marks a new step in its development. From now on, the cinema hall at Smiltene Municipality Culture Centre will be available for private hire, offering visitors the opportunity to watch a film of their choice on the big screen.

A child’s birthday party featuring a favourite film, a family celebration, an evening with friends, or a corporate event – the cinema hall can become a special venue for a variety of occasions. A private cinema screening will turn an ordinary movie night into a personal experience, creating a festive atmosphere and unforgettable memories.

Those interested in hiring the cinema hall are invited to get in touch directly for more information about rental options, film screening conditions, and technical arrangements.

A Century of Cinema Behind Us, New Stories Still to Come

Smiltene Cinema’s 100th anniversary is a testament to the enduring importance of cinema traditions in the town’s cultural life. By preserving its historical heritage while expanding its offerings, Smiltene Cinema continues to evolve, ensuring that a visit to the cinema remains a special experience for generations to come.

We invite everyone to visit the anniversary exhibition in November, explore the history of Smiltene Cinema, and take advantage of the new opportunities offered by the cinema hall.

See you at the cinema hall of Smiltene Municipality Culture Centre!

More information is available on the Smiltene Cinema Facebook page.

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For information about cinema hall rental and technical arrangements, please contact cinema projectionist Matīss Strautiņš by calling +371 26138980.
 

 

Sagatavoja:Matīss Strautiņš, Smiltenes novada Kultūras centra kinoprojicētājs