The Europa Cinema Network Hosts Conference In Athens

The Europa Cinema Network held its 18th annual conference in Athens, from 21-24 November.
The conference brought together cinema operators, sellers, producers and institution members from across Europe to discuss the future of European cinema.
Over the course of the conference, topics including the future of theatres, digital cinema and how to develop audiences were held. Additionally, 16 European films held special preview screenings.
Representing Film London's mini-network of London Europa cinemas was Film London's Senior Film Culture Manager Anna Kime.
"I was delighted to represent our mini-network in Athens," said Kime. "It was an excellent opportunity to connect with exhibitors, meet European colleagues and hear the latest from Creative Europe. There were some really inspiring presentations on building the brand awareness of cinemas and toolkits for engaging young people that I'm keen to pass on to the exhibitors we work with."
Among the extensive roster of experts at the conference, a strong showing of UK industry professionals spoke, all of them encouraging new avenues through which to grow and renew audiences:
• Peter Buckingham, Consultant, SampoMedia, who advised on the direct distribution of Microwave's Borrowed Time, argued that exhibitors need to learn to work with young people - not just for or at them - if they are serious about renewing audiences.
• Michael Pierce, Co-Founder, Cinema Nation - who has been supported on several ventures through Film London - explored where viewing habits originate, lauding experimental new ways of reaching audiences such as the Film London-supported Dalston Square People's Cinema.
• Clare Binns, Programming & Acquisitions Director, Picturehouse Cinemas spoke on what cinemas can do to retain an important place in cities and encouraged growth into the digital realm.
• Jon Barrenechea, Project Development Manager, Picturehouse Cinemas presented the burgeoning BFI Film Audience Network and described existing audience development initiatives including Film London's annual film education programme Cultivate.
(CD/JP)