If you're a movie buff or simply looking for a cozy movie night experience, there's a fantastic new offering in Canberra's City Centre. Elsie’s Film House is an inclusive social cinema designed to engage and welcome diverse community groups, while activating underutilised spaces along the way.
Founded by Alice Taylor and supported by the Placemaking Grants program, Elsie's Film House screens a variety of films including cult classics, popular arthouse films, international movies, and retro favourites from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Alice's passion project aims to engage community members through film events that involve consultation and collaboration with each community.
Alice Taylor.
The cinema features comfortable lounge décor and a social seating area for activities like movie trivia and live music. Additionally, the venue offers a drinks and snack bar with all your favourite movie snacks like popcorn and choc tops.
"Elsie’s is more than just a cinema. It's a community space where everyone is welcome," said Alice.
"Film has the power to bring people together to develop understanding and empathy among different communities.
"The cinema's weekend programming features popular retro films to attract a broad audience, while weeknight sessions focus on inclusive, community-oriented screenings for different sections of Canberra’s diverse population."
Elsie's Film House collaborates with various groups to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for Canberra's diverse community. Their programming is set to include:
If you’re looking to give Elsie’s a try, the cinema hosts ‘Free Film Fridays’ on the first Friday of every month, which lines up with free fare Fridays on Transport Canberra bus and light rail services.
The space also aims to be a hub for independent filmmakers. Local filmmakers are encouraged to get in touch to arrange a community screening of their work.
Elsie’s Film House is located next to the Canberra Museum and Gallery in Civic Square and is open until July. A complete list of screenings is available on Humantix.
You can also follow Elsie's Film House on Facebook and Instagram for upcoming programming.
The Placemaking Grants program is one of many City Renewal initiatives supported by the City Centre Marketing and Improvements Levy.
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.
