diversity access
The Strand attracts audiences from both the inner East (an area of high deprivation) and the outer suburbs with an increasingly mixed population in terms of ethnicity and religion. The Strand provides a welcoming, shared space for audiences from all backgrounds including those sectors of the community who may find the concept of an arts centre as ‘not for them’.
SAC works closely with a variety of community groups to ensure both traditional and new residents feel integrated in our programme being accessible by geography (bringing it to east Belfast), by perception (placing it in a familiar cinema environment) and by price (discounted or free tickets and places on workshops).
We encourage involvement of under-represented groups including BAME communities –
ncorporating multi-cultural events such as Black History Month as part of our ongoing Global Film Screenings that stimulate discussion and debate. Past events have included Polish film, theatre and creative workshops, Bollywood and other specialised screenings including those involving the LGBT+ community (e.g. ‘Cabaret’ screening with live catwalk by drag act Blu Hydrangea, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show with live performers.)
SAC activities engage audiences young and old –
- mums and tots dance classes
- performing arts classes for 6 to 18-year-olds
- free weekly Minors Club educational screenings
- a teen-programmed film club
- monthly Baby Friendly screenings
- intergenerational projects involving nursing homes and young people
Access & Captioned Screenings
SAC seeks to improve access to participation in the arts for disabled people through several initiatives:
- CEA card providing free tickets to carers of disabled patrons
- Securing investment to improve disability access, signage & website accessibility
- Front of house staff trained with JAM, dementia support, first aid support and customer service for people with a disability
- Programme with arts organisations such as University of Atypical and Northern Ireland Mental Health Arts Festival
- Provision of weekly captioned screening of new film releases
We are acutely aware that these are small concessions to disabled audiences or those with limited mobility. Except for one screen/theatre space, the remainder of the building, including our first-floor workshop space, is currently out of bounds to wheelchair users. Our proposed refurbishment is essential to ensure that disabled people can fully participate as employees, audience members, workshop participants or performers on stage.
