The troubles continue for Sudbury Indie Cinema, with the local cinema co-op learning it will have to move out of its current location less than a year from now.
“As you are likely aware, the building that houses the Indie has been for sale for some time and was recently sold,” said an April 29 newsletter to members of the cinema co-op.
“With the transfer of ownership of 162 Mackenzie, the Sudbury Independent Cinema Co-operative was notified that our current lease in the space will not be extended upon its conclusion in February 2025.
“This is devastating news to receive, but this was a possibility that has been on our radar since the building was first listed.”
It was only five years ago, in 2019, that Sudbury Indie Cinema opened at 162 Mackenzie St., in the former École Saint-Louis-de-Gonzague.
Renovations to the space cost $650,000, and while partly funded by the owners of the venue, government grants and fundraising also went toward the total.
The April 29 newsletter said the cinema co-op’s board has been seeking alternate venues.
“Several potential venues have been scouted and the list has been narrowed down to two potential options,” the newsletter stated.
A meeting of the cinema co-op’s members is being held May 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Indie.
“The meeting will serve to explore the benefits and drawbacks of each venue,” said the newsletter.
“Both options currently under consideration help position the Indie more favourably moving forward. With such an important decision that will impact your cinema-viewing experience, we need your input. Please join us to have your voice heard as a valued member of our co-operative as we lay the groundwork for this next phase of the Sudbury Indie Cinema.”
Sudbury.com reached out to Beth Mairs, lead programmer and former executive director of Sudbury Indie Cinema, for an interview on the situation. She declined, saying the cinema co-op would not be commenting publicly on the situation prior to the membership meeting.
In 2023, dealing with some financial struggles, Sudbury Indie Cinema received a $60,000 bridging grant from Greater Sudbury Development Corporation.
“Last time we were in touch was over a fiscal crisis this past fall,” said the April 29 newsletter to members.
“Our revenues were up, but with government support being pulled post-COVID, and some of our operating expenses being so high, we were struggling. We are pleased to share with you that by pulling together (staff, Board, Co-op members, and Greater Sudbury community) we met and exceeded our goals. The Greater Sudbury Development Corporation came through with bridge support (Year 1); our Annual Drive exceeded its goal thanks to your generosity; and our earned revenue in the past fiscal year was up 48 per cent over the previous. So we have had many strides in the right direction to assure the Indie’s future sustainability.”
Heidi Ulrichsen is Sudbury.com’s assistant editor. She also covers education and the arts scene.
