Thamesmead Texas presents the Thamesmead Travelling Cinema

‘The Thamesmead Travelling Cinema’ is a ​‘social sculpture’ that aims to bring people together through the shared love of cinema, as well as continue sharing histories & archives unique to the people of Thamesmead, the biggest social housing estate in England. ​‘The Thamesmead Travelling Cinema’ was built as a legacy project for the Thamesmead Community Archive Commission we were awarded in 2019. 

Designed and built by Alex Tuckwood. Commissioned by Scully & Scully. Funded by Peabody, ThamesmeadNow and Heritage Lottery Fund. Volunteer Programme funded by Bow Arts and Cinema for All. World Cinema Programme funded by Film London.

The Thamesmead Travelling Cinema is a 25-seater mobile outdoor community cinema made for the people of Thamesmead! Built using recycled materials, including almost 500 vinyl records, we launched in Spring 2021 and host seasonal screenings co-programmed for, by and with local residents from Thamesmead. 

Mission Statement

Community Cinema is made up of both filmmakers’ contributions and audience participation. The Thamesmead Travelling Cinema endeavours to screen Heritage films, Archive films and Second Run films. The team value Alternative cinema/​Alternative perspectives, including Radical, Activist, Independent, Artist and World Cinema

Thamesmead Travelling Cinema Values

We are a Community Cinema run by local people for local people

We aim to create a friendly atmosphere and inclusive environment open to all

We programme films which stimulate Curiosity and Critique

70% of programmes have local relevance

Our film screening events offer unique experiences

We aim to be an open place for discussion and ideas, to ensure different opinions are heard and respected

We aim to give the local community a sense of ownership, by listening and taking on feedback

THAMESMEAD TRAVELLING CINEMA aims to provide invaluable experience to young people in the operations of a community cinema. The dedicated volunteer programme, supported by Bow Arts has allowed young people from diverse backgrounds to fully commit to a season of film. At the end of each season the volunteers got the chance to put their learning into practice and run their own curated programme, with mentorship from experienced film programmers Scully and Scully. 

Winner of ​‘Best Green project’ at 2022 Society Awards.

See our website for further information. www​.thames​meadtrav​el​ling​cinema​.com