The Arzner will open this autumn in Bermondsey Square with a programme that celebrates queer cinema
We’ve seen far too many queer venues close or come under threat across London recently, so we’re happy to report some good news. London’s first LGBTQ+ cinema, The Arzner, will officially launch in Bermondsey soon and, while we don’t have an official opening date, the soft launch is this week (Wed 30th October until Sat 2nd November).
Named after pioneering lesbian filmmaker Dorothy Arzner, the cinema will showcase new releases and iconic films that have influenced queer cinema over the years, as well as spotlight underrated or forgotten titles. Simon Burke and Piers Greenlees, the duo behind The Rising Sun pub (AKA The Rising SE1) on Harper Road, are leading the project, bringing new life to the former Kino Cinema site which closed in January 2023.
The Arzner will have one screen with space for 50 in the audience and a total capacity of 150 including the bar, where there’ll be indoor and outdoor seating.
About the upcoming opening, Burke said: “As queer spaces continue to close, we’ve been blown away by the reception of The Rising SE1. We’re ready to bring our experience, expertise and film background to The Arzner to create more queer spaces in the area. We’re delighted for this to be a fully accessible venue too, which is critical to ensuring people have equal access to entertainment spaces.”
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Key Information:
Opening date | Autumn 2024
Address | 10 Bermondsey Square, London SE1 3UN
For more information | @thearznerse1