Montrose Playhouse Project has been given almost £100,000 towards the purchase of state of the art projectors and sound equipment.
The pledge from Screen Scotland’s Cinema Equipment Fund is a major boost to plans to convert the town’s former swimming pool into a triple screen cinema and community hub.
The Playhouse scheme was among 12 community cinema projects across Scotland which received funding worth a combined £420,000.
Maddy Doig, Keith Wellington, Kristin Alexander and chairman David Paton.Montrose project chairman David Paton welcomed the group’s £98,724 share.
“It will bring the Playhouse in line with the most modern cinemas in Scotland,” he said.
“This is another huge milestone we have met with great support and guidance from Screen Scotland’s team and various professionals.”
Mr Paton, a huge fan of film and the arts, had been sketching out plans for a cinema in old, disused buildings for several years.
His designs were inspired by the former Angus Playhouse, which opened in 1932 as a sister cinema to the playhouse in Elgin.
The group secured the town’s old swimming pool from Angus Council for £1 following its closure in 2012.
The ambition is to open the cinema at the end of 2020.
Angus councillors approved the acceptance of a £2.26 million Scottish Government grant, which makes up 75% of the estimated total cost.
The charity, which involves a committee of nine local volunteers, has submitted other applications for large grants which are awaiting decisions.
Montrose Playhouse Project needs to raise at least 90% of the funding before works can start.
It is aiming to bring in at least £80,000 through crowdfunding and sponsorship sales which will terminate on August 30.
Mr Paton said: “Crowdfunding has now broken through the £40,000 mark and we are excited to be speaking to several companies about sponsorships.”
Screen Scotland’s Jennifer Armitage said: “From community cinemas to touring operators, to multi arts venues and full-time cinemas, these awards are helping to improve and expand cinema provision in every context, increasing its reach, depth and inclusivity across Scotland.”
With funding from Scottish Government and the National Lottery, Screen Scotland sits within Creative Scotland and is a partnership with Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Skills Development Scotland, Scottish Funding Council.
