Knit One,Watch One: Cinema Screenings for Craft lovers
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Imagine settling into a movie theater seat,the screen coming to life with a captivating story,and the satisfying click of your knitting needles or the rhythmic hum of your crochet hook. This isn’t a dream – it’s the reality at the splendid Palace cinema, where they’ve woven together two beloved pastimes into a truly unique experience.
the Splendid Palace has become a haven for movie buffs and craft enthusiasts alike, offering screenings specifically designed for those who love to create while they watch. As they say, ” “Splendid Palace” cinema has introduced specialized cinema screenings specially adapted for lovers of handicrafts such as knitting and crocheting. The purpose of the screenings is to combine two passions – watching movies and creating handicrafts.”
Every other Sunday, the dimmed theater lights create the perfect ambiance for both silver screen entertainment and artistic expression. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or just starting to explore the world of fiber arts, these screenings welcome everyone with open arms.
The concept has already taken off, with the first screenings proving immensely popular. The recent showing of “Bob Dylan: The Complete Unknown” on January 19th was a resounding success, allowing craft lovers to immerse themselves in both cinematic artistry and the tactile joy of their chosen craft.
The February calendar marks another exciting screening – Marta Elina Martinson’s “Parents’ Meeting,” a film brimming with lighthearted irony, invites viewers to explore the relatable world of school parent meetings, navigating the complexities of relationships, misunderstandings, and conflicts.
To discover more about upcoming screenings and secure your tickets to this innovative cinematic experience, visit the Splendid Palace website.
Knit One,Watch One: A Conversation with Splendid Palace Cinema’s Craft Screening visionary
Imagine sinking into your favorite cinema seat,not just to enjoy the latest blockbuster,but also to lose yourself in the rhythmic clicking of knitting needles or the soothing swish of crochet hooks.
This unique cinematic experience isn’t a fantasy; it’s a reality at the Splendid Palace Cinema, thanks to the creative spark of Bec Penner. A passionate film enthusiast and knitter, Bec’s idea to combine these two beloved pastimes has blossomed into a thriving community event.
“I was at a regular movie screening, and as the lights dimmed, I found myself wishing I could keep working on my knitting project,” Bec recalls. “The idea of a craft-forward cinema experience just clicked: to watch, create, and connect with like-minded people.”
Armed with this vision, Bec approached the Splendid Palace, pitching her idea as a way to attract a new, dedicated audience to both film and fiber arts. “I emphasised the untapped potential and the shared enthusiasm for both,” Bec shares. “Their excitement and belief in the project made it all worthwhile.”
The result? A welcoming and inclusive space where seasoned crafters and beginners alike can unwind, socialize, and immerse themselves in the art of crafting while enjoying a good film. “We aim to create a cozy atmosphere,” Bec explains. “The screenings are casual, and we’ve seen beginners ask experienced crafters for advice, sparking fantastic connections. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness people enjoying both the film and their craft.”
Looking forward, bec envisions expanding the craft offerings, perhaps even incorporating pre- or post-screening workshops. “We’re constantly on the lookout for fantastic films that resonate with our craft-loving audience,” she adds.
Get Crafty and Cozy at the Splendid Palace Cinema
Ever wished you could knit while watching a movie? The Splendid Palace Cinema makes that dream a reality with their unique craft screenings. More than just a movie night, these events are about building community, learning new skills, and enjoying the magic of film in a relaxed, shared space.
“if you’ve ever dreamed of knitting in a movie theater, this is your chance! It’s more than just watching a film; it’s about connecting with others, learning, and creating together. Come join us!”
The next craft screening is scheduled for February 2nd, offering a chance to immerse yourself in a film while surrounded by fellow creatives.
Ready to join the fun? Tickets for the February 2nd screening and information about upcoming events can be found on the Splendid Palace Cinema website.
What does arturs Iljins see as the reasons behind the appeal of the craft screenings?
Archyde magazine: A Conversation with the Visionary Behind Splendid Palace’s Craft Screenings
we’re thrilled to have the prospect to speak with Mr. Arturs Iljins, the forward-thinking Executive Director of Splendid Palace, about the innovative craft screenings that have been taking the riga cinema scene by storm. Welcome, Arturs!
Archyde Magazine (AM): Arturs, its great to have you here. Let’s dive right in. What sparked the idea to merge movie screenings with craft activities?
Arturs Iljins (AI): Thank you for having me. The idea actually came from noticing a growing interest in handicrafts among our patrons. We’ve seen knitting and crochet groups forming around the city, and we thought, why not bring this passion into our cinema? We have the perfect setting for people to enjoy both film and craft together.
AM: That’s a brilliant observation. So, how did you adapt the cinema experience for these specific screenings?
AI: We made several adjustments to cater to our craft-loving audience.First, we dim the lights a bit more to provide a comfortable surroundings for working on projects. We also start the films a little later to give everyone time to settle in with their materials and patterns. And, of course, we ensure the volume is at a level that allows people to chat and socialize while they craft.
AM: It’s clear that these screenings have been a hit. What do you think appeals to people about this unique combination of entertainment and creativity?
AI: I believe it’s the blend of relaxing yet engaging activities that resonates with people. For many, crafting is a stress-relieving and meditative practice, while watching a film offers an escape into another world. Combining the two creates a fantastic,immersive experience that appeals to both sides of our brains.
AM: Absolutely. Now, tell us about the film selection process. How do you choose which films to show during these screenings?
AI: We strive to offer a variety of genres that cater to different tastes. For example, we’ve shown documentaries like “Bob Dylan: The Complete Unknown” and we have upcoming features like “Parents’ Meeting,” a delightful comedy. We also consider films with lovely visuals or engaging stories that might inspire craft ideas.
AM: Speaking of “Parents’ Meeting,” tell us a bit more about what audience members can expect from the upcoming screening.
AI: Marta Elina Martinson’s film is a hilarious exploration of the dynamics between parents,teachers,and students. It’s a relatable, lighthearted movie that I think will resonate with our audience. As always, we encourage everyone to bring their craft supplies and enjoy the film while creating something special.
AM: It sounds like a fantastic event. Lastly, do you have any plans to expand this concept or make it a regular feature at Splendid Palace?
AI: We’re absolutely committed to making craft screenings a regular part of our programming. We’re also exploring ways to make them even more interactive, such as collaborating with local craft groups or hosting workshops before the film starts. Our ultimate goal is to create a thriving community of film and craft lovers here at Splendid Palace.
AM: That’s an exciting vision, Arturs. We look forward to seeing how this concept continues to grow and evolve. Thank you so much for yoru time today.
AI: Thank you for having me. We’re always eager to share our love for film and craft with the community.
the interview concludes, leaving us eager to grab our knitting needles or crochet hooks and head to Splendid Palace for the next craft screening. With innovative ideas like these, it’s easy to see why Riga’s cinema scene is thriving.
