An independent cinema in Whitley Bay is hoping to sell thousands more movie tickets after opening its second permanent screen.
Jam Jar Cinema has officially opened “Screen Two” after expanding its premises on Park Avenue as part of its plans to bring in more film lovers.
The new screen can seat 29 people and boasts high-end technical equipment as well as comfortable seating.
Screen Two was unveiled yesterday when customers were able to enjoy watching the Downton Abbey film using the new facilities.
Heather Ritch, guest experience coordinator, said: “Screen Two is a huge opportunity for us to schedule a wider choice of movies, more show-time options and facilitate even more guests here at Jam Jar Cinema.
“I’m sure our customers will be thrilled with the new addition - and we are looking forward to getting to know some new faces too!”
Jam Jar Cinema started life in 2011 when its founder Dan Ellis spotted a gap in the market for a local cinema in Whitley Bay. Without permanent base for the business, he began showing films in soft play areas and churches, roping in friends to help him set up the screenings.
Since then the company has its own premises, employs 16 members of staff and sells more than 50,000 tickets a year, but the firm is hoping to boost this to 80,000 in the near future.
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The business is looking to continue to grow and is planning to open its third screen, along with a bar and lift, before Christmas.
Commenting on Jam Jar’s new screen, Mr Ellis said: “Everything has come together really well. We’ve partnered with Christie Vive Audio as it’s the best small auditorium sound system available. And we’ve combined this with the incredible Dolby 7.1 surround sound - there couldn’t be a better pairing for our space.
“We are confident our customers will be blown away by our accurate, immersive, engaging sound and we’re convinced the audio experience in Screen 2 will be like nothing else on this scale here in the North East. Plus we are proud to offer this level of world-class exhibition at our reasonable prices.”
Mr Ellis has brought in a number of new initiatives to grow Jam Jar Cinema, including introducing a “Pay As You Please” system where customers can choose how much they pay for a ticket. It is hoped that the scheme will encourage more people to go to the cinema.