Opening in 1995 with just two small screens, the Showroom cinema was born from a simple dream to promote the proto film industry in Sheffield. Since then, it has expanded to become one of Europe’s largest independent cinemas, a thriving hub of culture, art and industry, and an institution championing the work of up-and-coming filmmakers and creators.
With the beginning of its fourth decade in 2025 comes an ambitious vision to propel the cinema into its next phase of growth. The new developments plan to cement the Showroom at the forefront of the city’s economic and cultural regeneration, crafting new opportunities for film enthusiasts and creatives to add to its regional talent base.
The Showroom already partners with the British Film Institute to run its highly successful BFI Youth Film Academy, as well as collaborating with both Sheffield universities to formally support their filmmaking programmes. The cinema is also the hub for the annual DocFest, attracting visitors internationally each June for the vibrant celebration of documentary filmmaking.
Mark Hilton, Chair of the Showroom’s Board of Trustees, said: “Sheffield folk know how to tell a good story, whether it’s at a bus stop or on the big screen. Learning from the success of Warp Films and other local industry leaders, we want to work with Sheffield City Council and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority to grow the film and television industry in Sheffield.”
Championing local voices and local stories is, and will continue to be, at the heart of the Showroom’s outlook. Mark added: “Drawing on our success with the BFI Youth Film Academy, we want to boost our community engagement work and ensure that Sheffield’s diverse voices make it to the screen. We believe this can ensure that local stories are captured and told – from the Golden Age of cinema to the advent of TikTok and streaming.”
Having reached the next round of a Heritage Lottery Grant application, the Showroom building hopes to be restored to its full natural beauty in a way that also celebrates its Art Deco style.
Mark explained the plans to restore the building, making it an iconic landmark in Sheffield’s skyline: “The building’s location means it can act as a gateway to a city that values its heritage, particularly for visitors arriving at the train station. We want to ensure it lives up to this responsibility, and that it becomes a vital landmark and local resource.”
Founding CEO Ian Wild, who is moving on after 30 years at the Showroom, said: “I am immensely proud of our achievements over the last 30 years. I will take away many recollections and memories, but the fantastic enthusiasm and support for Sheffield’s film audiences over many years will always be at the front of my thoughts.”
Words: Ruby Deakin
