Having first opened its doors on 23rd August 1937, The Forum has served the population of Hexham and surrounding area for over 80 years with only a few short breaks from 1974 to 1982 and in the early 1990s when the building was bought by JD Wetherspoon. Despite the change of ownership, the cinema has retained its original Art Deco styling that was designed to replace the old Gem Palace cinema that previously occupied the same site from 1910.
The local development trust, Hexham Community Partnership, bought the lease on the cinema in 2007 and established Forum Cinema Hexham Ltd as a community enterprise with all profits being used for the benefit of the town and surrounding areas.
Investment in the cinema in the subsequent years has seen improved access to the first-floor premises, a new digital projector, upgraded sound systems and a satellite receiver to allow screenings of live productions from around the world. The café/bar has also been refurbished creating a relaxed and friendly environment for people to meet and enjoy local produce as well as some familiar cinema favourites.
The cinema’s programme is curated to be as diverse and inclusive as possible.
Operating with only one auditorium we pride ourselves in the quality and range of our film selection. The cinema’s programme is curated to include films both old and new, across all countries and genres. With regular accessible performances, designed to appeal to all our audiences as well as occasional guest speakers, live music performances, Q+A’s and discussions, we're confident that each week, there is something for everyone on our screen.
In 2019, The Forum launched the Tyne Valley Film Festival, a community programmed film festival held annually in March located at multiple unique venues situated across the Tyne Valley.
