New Chief Appointed to Drive Belmont Cinema Revival
Matt Buchanan, former venue manager of Montrose Playhouse, joins Belmont Community Cinema as CEO.
The Belmont Cinema is taking a big step toward its revival with the appointment of Matt Buchanan as Chief Executive Officer.
Known for his incredible work at the Montrose Playhouse, where he turned a derelict swimming pool into a thriving community hub, Matt brings the passion and experience needed to breathe new life into Aberdeen’s much-loved independent cinema. It’s a fantastic appointment for the Belmont and one that promises an exciting future for film and culture in the city.
At the Montrose Playhouse, Buchanan demonstrated how a local cinema can be more than just a screen for films. Under his leadership, the venue became a vital part of the community, hosting events, fostering creativity, and providing a cultural heartbeat for Montrose. Building on this success, Buchanan is poised to bring the same energy and innovation to Aberdeen.
“I've seen first-hand the positive difference that access to good quality cinema, arts, and culture can make to people's lives. I believe that Aberdeen deserves an inclusive, vibrant, independent cinema,” Buchanan said. “This is an incredible opportunity, and I’m ready to play my part for the good of every film lover in our city.”
A cornerstone of Aberdeen’s cultural life
Buchanan’s love of film is as personal as it is professional, with The Big Lebowski sitting proudly as his favourite movie. Its blend of eccentric storytelling and offbeat charm reflects the inclusive, character-driven programming he champions. It's a vision for cinema that celebrates diversity and creativity.
His appointment comes as Belmont Community Cinema Ltd works to raise over £3 million to refurbish the historic Belmont Street venue. The plan includes modernising the space to make it environmentally sustainable and fully accessible while restoring its role as a cornerstone of Aberdeen’s cultural life.
Jacob Campbell of Belmont Community Cinema Ltd shared his confidence in Buchanan’s ability to lead the project. “Matt’s enthusiastic vision for the future of the theatre, the passion for his craft, and his experienced background navigating similar situations like the one Belmont finds itself in at the moment were exactly what we were looking for to help bring our ambitious plans to life.”
The Belmont Cinema is well-positioned to reclaim its role as a cultural landmark with this new appointment. As plans progress to modernise the historic venue, Buchanan’s vision promises a space where creativity thrives and film lovers of all backgrounds can come together to celebrate the magic of cinema.
