Northern Ireland’s oldest cinema looks forward to new era

The historic Strand Cinema in east Belfast is set to reopen next year following a major restoration (Strand Arts Centre/PA)

The long history of Belfast’s oldest remaining cinema will be celebrated as it looks forward to its future.

The Strand in east Belfast originally opened on December 7 1935 showing the film Bright Eyes, starring Shirley Temple and James Dunn, who are immortalised in a mural on the side of the building.