The idea
We are in the process of obtaining all permissions needed. In the unlikely event that these are not secured, no money will be taken from backers. In 2020 we celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower sailing away from Rotherhithe, migrating to new lands. As part of the celebrations we are proposing a summer event: a floating stage re-using an empty industrial barge and transforming it into a floating cinema on the water. The area of Rotherhithe formed as a community around the notion of water, however its industrial past of imports/exports tends to be forgotten. This project seeks to engage with river Thames, to re-enforce the historical roots of the community and discuss cultural exchange through cinema. This will be a place where films can be screened, stories can unfold, theatre, exhibitions, talks and events can take place which will bring together a local crowd, as well as curious visitors from across London to explore this beautiful part of the city.
What we'll deliver
- Floating Cinema structure, screen and seating
- Facilities and small serving area for hot/cold drinks
- Garden - allontments which will be curated and maintained by community primary schools
Why it's a great idea
A floating cinema, a glowing lantern commemorating the Mayflower 400 whilst providing an opportunity for the local residents to experience the notion of pilgrimage and River Thames. The project creates a physical space (a barge or intervention) along the river at the South Dock Marina in Rotherhithe - a lesser known but beautiful part of south-east London by the Greenland Surrey Quays Thames clipper station. Stemming from the heart of Rotherhithe community, the floating cinema will become an annex stage for small summer events and film. The aim is to activate this part of the river while strengthening the local community as well as attracting a wider audience of cinephiles and people interested in the Arts from Southwark and Greater London. Another important aspect of the project is to involve the local community, empowering different age/ social groups to own or take care of an element - i.e. local schools will own and care for a garden plot on the buoys.
Steps to get it done
- Secure Barge from Landlord/ Purchase pontoon
- Enable access/or flotation pontoon platform
- Clear Barge and prepare for transformation/ siteworks
- Provide flowerbeds/allotment gardens to be planted by local schools
- Design, build and deliver stage/ sets/ seating
- Design, build and deliver core facilities
- Install electricity and power
- Install projector, lights and other services
- Advertise/ social media/ partner with organisations interested
- Co-ordinate construction and onsite assembly
- Partner with organisations for film curation and screening
- Partner with beverage/ coffee, drinks and snacks company
- Decide on events
- Project available to public, organise events through eventbrite
- De-install
- Donate tensile to Southwark to be used in the following years as a summer stage for events on land, parks etc.
The project aims to add value to the Rotherhithe riverside, showcasing river Thames as the main force of the area, and through this inspire an understanding of the area's industrial past which remains unearthed or has been erased by large housing developments. Local business will benefit from visitors to the events, raising awareness and attracting local and wider audience. We see this as a beautiful way to bring the Rotherhithe community together regardless of age, language, profession or experience; by simply coming together on a warm summer evening to watch a film by the river, in the Marina. The Cinema will be moored in the Greenland/South Dock Marina. Preferred route for visitors would be to take the Clipper down river Thames and get off at the Greenland Surrey Quays Thames clipper station next to the Greenland Dock. A space for film, garden, some seating space and a small cafe/bar will become the main elements of this project.
