From the latest Hollywood blockbusters, to small independent and arthouse films, Orkney’s cinema lovers have plenty of opportunity to experience big screen entertainment.
Whether you want the full silver screen experience, or a smaller community cinema night, there’s always something on offer across the islands.
Kirkwall's Pickaquoy Centre is home to the Phoenix Cinema, a modern 243-seater digital 3D venue. It has a fantastically varied programme, including box office favourites, classic movies and foreign language films. It also broadcasts high quality live performances via satellite link from venues across the UK, giving islanders the chance to sample theatre, opera, ballet and more.
The Phoenix Fringe is a regular bi-monthly movie night that shows an eclectic selection of films from around the world on the big screen at the Phoenix Cinema too.
Orkney’s communities have some excellent facilities to host events in, and these locations offer a very special film experience on a regular basis too. Since 2012, the West Side Cinema in Stromness has been showcasing a hugely varied programme of world cinema in Stromness Town Hall, complete with themed music, cabaret-style table seating and a ‘bring your own’ food and drink policy. Short films accompany many showings, and there are often special events including filmmaker talks and workshops too. It’s a truly unique cinema event. Keep up-to-date with the latest news online and on Facebook.
Elsewhere in Orkney, the Cromarty Hall in St Margaret’s Hope hosts Screen in the Square, a regular film night with a wide selection of features. Everyone is welcome along – you can get regular programme updates on the Cromarty Hall Facebook page.
The Gable End Theatre is a 75-seat community theatre in the island of Hoy that is home to an incredibly varied programme of events, including film showings. Screenings usually take place every fortnight, with updates available on the theatre’s Facebook page.
Orkney is also a regular stop for the travelling Screen Machine, which takes cinema to some of Scotland’s more remote and island communities.