Deckchair Cinema’s Air Raid Arcade project wins approval

A proposal to fit-out an empty arcade venue with a second home for the beloved Deckchair Cinema has got the tick of approval.

A proposal to establish a second home for Darwin’s adored Deckchair Cinema has been approved by planning authorities in a big win for local film fanatics.

The indoor cinema will be built in the upper level of the Air Raid Arcade, which is already home to an eclectic array of venues including a bar, cafe, clothing shops and a vintage record store.

The Darwin Film Society project will have a capacity of up to 120 people and operate year-round, unlike its waterfront counterpart that closes every wet season.

Deckchair Cinema general manager James Parker said the project was in its early stages but was anticipated to open sometime next year.

Pans for the new Deckchair Cinema on the first floor of the Air Raid Arcade in Darwin. Picture: Andrea Rice Architects

“We’ve been very fortunate to pick up a lot of second-hand equipment like chairs and projectors after the cinemas on Mitchell Street and in Palmerston closed down,” Mr Parker said.

“But it will have a very different look and feel to a commercial cinema – it will be a little bit quirky and left-of-field.

“There’s quite a Bohemian vibe in the Air Raid Arcade too and we think it will be a good fit for this project.”

Mr Parker said the new venue will allow the Darwin Film Society to offer a greater number of screenings, including niche films and local productions.

“We think it’s important that the new cinema caters to the things that Deckchair doesn’t, such as screening in the wet season and screening during the day,” Mr Parker said.

“At the moment it’s hard to attract young families to Deckchair Cinema as the evening screenings can be too late, and it’s just too hot to screen during the day.

Deckchair Cinema general manager James Parker in front of the waterfront venue. Picture: Che Chorley

“We were able to do about 300 screenings this year at Deckchair, which has a capacity of about 400 people.

“The new venue will allow us to screen some more niche films that don’t need as many ticket sales to break-even.

“There will also be an opportunity for local filmmakers to show their content or hire the space for an affordable price.

“All over the world cinemas are increasingly moving into larger commercial spaces, and so it’s important for people to support inner-city and independent cinemas.

“Plus, we play the alternative films you won’t find anywhere else.”

The Deckchair Cinema will close for its annual wet season shutdown in late November.

The venue is currently hosting the 2022 Darwin International Film Festival, which runs until September 22.

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Originally published as Deckchair Cinema’s Air Raid Arcade project wins approval