Ster-Kinekor Sam Levy Village Cinema shuts its doors
After ten years of enchanting audiences with a blend of blockbuster hits, independent films, and community events, Ster-Kinekor Sam Levy Village Cinema is preparing to close its doors.
The lease agreement for this cherished cinema is set to expire on June 30, 2024, as the landlord has opted to repurpose the space, steering it away from its current use as a cinema.
For a decade, the cinema has been more than just a place to watch movies; it has been a cultural hub, a gathering place for families, friends, and film enthusiasts.
From its comfortable seating to its state-of-the-art sound systems, the cinema provided an immersive experience that drew patrons from all walks of life.
“We regret to inform you that our Sam Levy Village Cinema lease agreement, which lasted for an impressive 10 years, is expiring on the 30th of June 2024,” the cinema’s management announced in a statement.
“Unfortunately, the landlord has made the unexpected decision to repurpose the space and shift its focus away from cinema.”
Despite this setback, the cinema’s management remains optimistic about the future.
They are actively searching for a new, suitable location to continue their innovative business model, which has successfully blended mainstream entertainment with community-oriented events.
“Our hearts are full of gratitude for the memories and joy this cinema has brought to many over the years,” the statement continued.
“For now, we look forward to continue welcoming you to our Bulawayo and Joina City cinemas whilst we finalize on our next location/s. Thank you for being part of our story. We can’t wait to see you soon!”
The Cultural Impact of Sam Levy Village Cinema
Since its inception, Sam Levy Village Cinema has played a significant role in Harare’s cultural landscape.
It has been a venue where international film festivals found a home, where local filmmakers premiered their works, and where special events brought the community together.
The cinema’s closure not only affects regular patrons but also the local arts scene, which has benefitted from having a reliable venue for film and cultural events.
A Future Full of Promise
While the closure of Sam Levy Village Cinema is a significant loss, the management’s proactive approach to finding a new location is a silver lining.
The search for a new venue is driven by a commitment to continue providing a space where the magic of cinema can be experienced by all.
