SINGAPORE - Local indie theatre The Projector announced on Aug 19 that it is winding down after a decade of operations.

In an Instagram post, it said that it “will enter voluntary liquidation after a decade of championing alternative films, local creativity, and community-led programming”.

Its operations will cease on Aug 19 with immediate effect .

In a press statement, it cited rising operational costs, shifting audience habits and the global decline in cinema attendance as reasons for its closure.

These have made sustaining an independent cinema in Singapore an increasingly difficult endeavour, it said.

Alongside these pressures are the broader realities of operating in the arts and culture sector in Singapore, “where independent ventures navigate limited resources while contributing to the country’s evolving cultural landscape”, it added.

The Projector first opened its doors in 2014 at Golden Mile Tower, a historical building known for its Thai discos and eateries. It was started by three female co-founders: Ms Karen Tan, Ms Blaise Trigg-Smith and Ms Sharon Tan.

In the past decade, it has played host to many film festivals, and screened countless indie films from across the globe.

More than just a place to watch movies, it has also evolved into a cultural and events space where artists, filmmakers, and audiences gather to engage with diverse communities, it said in its statement.

“It breaks our hearts to make this decision,” said Ms Karen Tan.

“We’ve fought to keep The Projector alive through every challenge - from breathing new life into a disused cinema at Golden Mile Tower, to weathering the pandemic, to expanding to new spaces.”

She added that she is immensely grateful to everyone who has been part of The Projector’s journey, including its team, collaborators, partners and loyal audiences.

“The Projector may be closing, but we hope its spirit will live on in the conversations, ideas, and communities we’ve nurtured,” she said.

The Straits Times has contacted The Projector for more information.

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