The Invest Plymouth Team recently sat down with Anna Navas, Director, Manon Le Tual, Operations Manager and Charlotte McGuinness, Marketing Manager to find out more about the Plymouth Arts Cinema.
Plymouth Arts Cinema, based in Arts University Plymouth’s main campus, has been uniquely providing an independent cinema in Plymouth for almost 50 years. Open five days a week, it specialises in independent, foreign language and British films. It is invested in the local community and runs family friendly events, and screens films focussed on environmental and social issues. PAC enjoys a national reputation as a champion for gender equality in film. It supports and showcases local filmmaking skills and attracts internationally renowned guests from the film industry.
All taking place right here in Britain’s Ocean City. If you would like to find out more about sponsorship opportunities please visit: Sponsor Us | Plymouth Arts Cinema | Independent Cinema for Everyone | located at Arts University Plymouth.
What is the name of the company and how long have you been in Plymouth?
Plymouth Arts Cinema. We have been based in Arts University Plymouth since 2019. Prior to that, we were known as Plymouth Arts Centre, which was established in 1947 on Looe Street.
What is the sector that you specialise in?
Independent Cinema.
In 20 words, how would you describe the business?
Award-Winning Independent Cinema. Screening the best new and indie cinema, with film festivals, special events, Bringing in Baby & more.
Do you supply to Plymouth/SW/UK-wide/overseas?
Mainly Plymouth, but as the only independent cinema between Totnes and Falmouth, we do get many visitors from further afield in the region.
What would you say was your best-selling product?
The opportunity to hold events in the cinema is very popular with our corporate sponsors and local businesses. We offer the use of our 108 seater cinema, with the opportunity for presentations, and a choice of film. We have a full bar and can arrange a drinks reception with nibbles. The sponsorship package also includes running advertisements on the cinema screen before films.
What would you say is the best thing about doing business in Plymouth?
There’s a lot going on in Plymouth and we value being an integral part of the wider cultural scene and the local community. We work with theatres, art galleries and local community groups to provide events on the big screen to complement their activities.
And what of the future … where do you see Plymouth Arts Cinema in 10 years time?
We hope to still be providing the city with a warm, welcoming and inclusive cinema where everyone can see the best that independent film has to offer. We dream of having a second screen and dedicated workshop space so hopefully both of those things are in our future.
And how about yourself … how long have you worked at Plymouth Arts Cinema and what is your role?
Charlotte: I’ve worked at PAC for 11 years and I’m the Marketing Manager.
Manon: I’ve worked at PAC for 9 years and I am the Operations Manager.
Anna: I have worked at PAC for over 20 years as the Film Programmer and as the Director for the past 5 years
How do you spend your time outside of work?
All of us who work at PAC are film enthusiasts, so to be honest you’ll probably find us at the cinema!
If you could have a business lunch with anyone who could significantly influence you/the business, who would that be and why?
Either Keanu Reeves or Paddington because they are both kind and polite.