How open-air movie theaters have been making a comeback in Cyprus in recent years, and who chooses them as a way to spend their free time
In other European countries, the open-air cinema has always been synonymous with summer and a relaxing way to spend an evening. In recent years, this tradition has been gaining momentum in Cyprus as well, offering an alternative way to spend time outdoors. Despite its enduring appeal, the declining attendance among younger generations is a cause for concern. Attracting the younger generation to the summer outdoor cinema is now one of the most significant challenges for preserving this tradition.
Speaking to “Alpha on Sunday,” Yiannis Xenophontos, President of the Friends of the Cinema Association, noted that the open-air cinema offers a unique summer experience with its own distinct charm, while noting that the experience depends not so much on the film being shown as on the unique atmosphere created by the open-air setting.
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Audience Turnout
The question that arises is whether there is still an audience for this today. Mr. Xenophontos noted that following the COVID-19 pandemic, digital movie streaming platforms have grown significantly, which has impacted the open-air cinema. However, he emphasized that open-air cinemas continue to attract a satisfactory number of visitors, and that attendance has remained stable in recent years. Although there aren’t many open-air movie venues in Cyprus, quite a few cultural events are organized, particularly in Nicosia.
Young People and Open-Air Cinemas
When asked to comment on the biggest challenge facing open-air cinemas today, Mr. Xenophontos spoke about youth attendance. Specifically, he noted that the average age of moviegoers is relatively high, adding that the younger generation tends to choose more mainstream films. He emphasized that the absence of young people at the outdoor movie theater is particularly noticeable. As he noted, although these young people do watch movies, they usually prefer to watch them on their computers or go to the theater only when a well-known film is playing. They rarely choose the alternative films shown at the outdoor movie theater.
Mr. Xenophon’s hope is to see a new generation at the outdoor movie theater. “I want to see young people going to the outdoor movie theater. I want them to come see more alternative films—not mainstream ones—to discuss them and reflect on them.”
She spoke about the issue in “Alpha on Sunday” and Anna Skordi, the Film Coordinator at the Deputy Ministry of Culture, who emphasized the importance of the open-air cinema for Cypriot culture. She noted that open-air cinemas offer viewers high-quality films that appeal to a broad audience without excluding specific age groups.
The Contribution of the Deputy Ministry of Culture
How does the Deputy Ministry of Culture contribute to the development of this institution? As Ms. Skordi noted, the Deputy Ministry of Culture supports open-air summer cinema through various actions and initiatives implemented as part of its cultural programs. As she noted, through the “Culture” program, , support is provided to organizations that organize summer festivals and open-air film screenings, helping to boost cinematic activity during the summer months. At the same time, he referred to the “Summer Film Marathon” program, which is co-organized with “Theater One” and constitutes an important initiative for promoting summer cinema.
Measures by the Deputy Ministry to Attract Young People
When asked what steps the Deputy Ministry of Culture is taking to attract people to outdoor movie theaters, Ms. Skordi stated that films are being selected that appeal to a younger audience. She also noted that the Ministry is utilizing social media, which young people can easily access, to promote the initiative. She emphasized that reaching young people requires a different approach to communication, one that is tailored to their modern habits.
Although there aren’t many open-air movie theaters, Ms. Skordi noted that, in recent years, numerous screenings have been held at venues that are set up and operated as open-air movie theaters, strengthening the institution’s presence and offering the public more opportunities to enjoy the cinematic experience in open-air settings.
