Festive films for all the family at the MAC
Capped at a maximum capacity of 32 people, the newly repurposed ‘Luminaire Club’ at the MAC will host special screenings in a unique setting that is fully compliant with public health guidelines, and will brighten the nights of those wanting to enjoy some normality with family and friends in a safe and secure bubble-style cinema.
Speaking at the launch of the festival, Melissa Henry, Marketing and Communications Officer at the MAC said:
“Christmas has been a special time at the MAC since we opened and we know that many families make their MAC outing an annual tradition. We cannot host our usual type of Christmas family show this year so we have been working really hard to find a way to open our doors to the community and provide the opportunity for some to enjoy a safe and fun night out with some festive cheer.
“We have transformed our Downstairs theatre into a socially-distanced cabaret club, with tables sold in bubbles only for your group or for an individual. Complete with a magical cinematic experience, we think our visitors will love the chance to once again enjoy some culture and fun, safe in the knowledge that every measure has been taken to ensure the highest levels of sanitation and customer safety.
“Our ‘Movies at Christmas’ series will have something for everyone, showing the likes of Die Hard, The Polar Express and Miracle on 34th Street. Morning shows will be relaxed and have been specifically designed to welcome our youngest customers, so there is a relaxed attitude to noise and lighting will be adjusted. We can’t wait to welcome visitors of all ages into this special theatre again this December.”
The new movie schedule has been established in association with Belfast Film Festival.
Stephen Hackett, Head of Programming at Belfast Film Festival added:
“It has been a really difficult year for filmmakers, cinemas and movie lovers, who have been unable to make, screen and enjoy film productions as they should be. With everything that is going on in the world right now, we need outlets like film more than ever, to provide some much needed enjoyment and escapism.
“Facilitating film festivals and pulling off a programme of events such as this one at the MAC are difficult enough under normal circumstances, so credit must go to everyone involved in bringing it to life and saving some Christmas spirit this Winter.”
As per current Government guidelines, the Luminaire Cinema hopes to open on Saturday 12th December with ‘The Polar Express’ and tickets are available to purchase online via the MAC’s website.
Screenings will take place each following weekend until Christmas Eve, as well Monday to Thursday of week commencing 21st December.
The MAC has achieved the ‘We’re Good to Go’ industry-standard mark under Government and public health guidance, having implemented a carefully planned social distancing system, pre-booking to monitor visitor numbers and an enhanced hygiene regime throughout the venue. All visitors are also asked to sanitise their hands regularly and wear a face covering during their visiFestive films for all the family at the MAC
