Silver Screen Cinema in Dover goes digital

Dover's Silver Screen Cinema is moving into the digital age with a state-of-the-art make-over, including the installation of new projection and sound systems - with the new-look cinema set to reopen its doors on Saturday (6 September 2014).

The Silver Screen Cinema, part of the Discovery Centre complex at Dover Market Square, is getting new digital sound and projection equipment, jointly funded by Dover District Council and Dover Town Council.

The cinema is run by independent operators, Silver Screen Cinemas. As part of the upgrade process, the operators are also investing in new seats and new carpets at the venue.

The cinema had previously been running with a 35mm film projector, but faced closure as distributors move to all digital formats. The Silver Screen Cinema in Dover is thought to be one of the last cinemas in the country moving from 35mm to digital projection. The digital equipment means the cinema will be able to continue to show the latest blockbusters, while developing new community audiences for the future.

Cllr Nigel Collor, DDC Cabinet Member for Access and Property Management said: "We were very pleased to work with Dover Town Council and the Silver Screen Cinema to invest in facilities at this great town centre location. The new-look cinema will provide a valuable asset for our local communities, and complement facilities at the multiplex that is part of the comprehensive St James's redevelopment."

Cllr Pam Brivio, Town Mayor of Dover, said: "We hope to see greater community involvement in growing our cinema with this new equipment and would love to hear from anyone interested in getting involved!"

Sandy Wallace, operator of the Silver Screen Cinema in Dover, said: "The new digital equipment will enable the Silver Screen to show the latest general release films, and develop local audiences for community interest films, which could include films like the historic Ray Warner archive, which is held by Dover Museum."