Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Independent Cinema in Stoke-on-Trent
Founded in 1974, we are Stoke-on-Trent's dedicated independent cinema, showcasing the finest in art-house, world cinema, and curated mainstream films. As a registered charity (no. 504600) since 1975, our mission has always been to provide access to culturally enriching films unavailable in local multiplexes. Operated almost entirely by volunteers, we maintain a 154-seat auditorium equipped with state-of-the-art digital projection and sound systems from Dolby, Barco, and LANSat. Our programming spans Tuesday to Saturday evenings, offering unadvertised screenings that foster community engagement through film. We prioritise accessibility with infra-red hearing systems, audio description headsets, wheelchair spaces, and a fully accessible venue.Our bar service complements screenings with refreshments, while our volunteer teams manage operations, ensuring sustainability through box office and bar sales. The cinema also contributes to regional film heritage through publications like 'Film in North Staffordshire' and partnerships with local cultural institutions. With over 50 years of experience, we remain a cornerstone of Stoke-on-Trent's cultural landscape, combining historical significance with modern cinematic excellence.
Services
Film screenings
Bar refreshments
Accessibility services
Parking facilities
Volunteer opportunities
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We offer over 50 years of expertise in curating independent cinema
- Our volunteer-led model ensures community-focused programming
- We maintain charitable status with transparent operations since 1975
- Our digital screening systems meet industry-leading technical standards
- We provide comprehensive accessibility features for all patrons
Services
Film screenings
Regular film screenings featuring independent, art-house, and world cinema in a 154-seat auditorium. Our programme includes rare titles and curated selections unavailable in mainstream cinemas. All screenings use professional-grade digital projection and sound systems.
Accessibility services
Comprehensive accessibility features including infra-red hearing systems, audio description headsets, wheelchair spaces, and ramp access. Staff provide assistance with venue navigation and equipment operation for patrons with disabilities.
Bar refreshments
Pre-film bar service offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, hot drinks, and snacks. Customers may bring bottled water into screenings. The bar operates from 7pm each screening evening, supporting venue sustainability through sales.
Volunteer opportunities
Volunteer positions across eight teams managing ticket sales, bar service, film projection, and venue operations. Volunteers work biweekly shifts (under one hour weekly) and receive free tickets for each shift completed.
Cultural publications
Publication of regional film heritage materials including 'Film in North Staffordshire', documenting cinema culture from 1910 to the present. Books are available for purchase at the venue and local retail partners.
Questions
What ticket prices apply for film screenings?
Adult tickets cost £8.50, concession tickets £7.50, and young person tickets £5.00. Booking fees apply for online purchases.
Is parking available at the cinema?
Yes, 85-car parking is available with a £1 fee payable via the Evology app or on arrival. Download the app before visiting.
How accessible is the venue for disabled patrons?
The venue offers wheelchair spaces, hearing assistance systems, audio description headsets, lift access, and accessible toilets on all floors.
Can I volunteer at Stoke Film Theatre?
Yes, we welcome volunteers across eight teams. Biweekly shifts typically require less than one hour weekly with free tickets offered as appreciation.
What facilities are available during screenings?
Our bar serves drinks and snacks from 7pm each screening evening. Bottled water may be taken into the auditorium during films.
