Ask a local to choose their favourite Hebden facility and the chances are they’ll pick our not-for-profit cinema. This place rocks! A beautiful listed building open 363 days every year, it’s one of just a handful of independent cinemas now being run by a parish council, having been open for 97 years. Better still, it’s a big local employer that pays a proper living wage to its passionate staff, and that means every film you watch comes with added feel-good factor. Heck, the Picture House is so well loved that people are even sponsoring seats to support it.
In terms of its programme, the cinema shows everything from mainstream, foreign and arthouse films to kids’ stuff, special interest and commemorative one-offs.There are ‘live arts’ theatre and opera broadcasts too, plus visiting speakers and even a Secret Cinema where youngsters pick the film.Monthly specialities include local films, classics and a slot for something surreal, while the annual Christmas screening of It’s a Wonderful Life is now a festive must for many.
Inclusivity is a big deal here, so you’ll find special dementia and autism-friendly screenings and also ones for parents and babies. Discounts galore mean certain tickets are just £4, and there’s a money-saving membership scheme as well as deals for youngsters, students, over 60s and low-income groups. Along with cheap matinees there’s even a special ‘elevenses’ show with a brew and biscuits thrown in, while the licensed bar has drinks and snacks at prices more Hebden than Hollywood.
