Happy Volunteers' Week!

Throughout its 108-year life, there's been so many amazing people who've supported the cinema in so many ways, and our volunteers are absolutely up there with the most important. Simply put, HPPH couldn't be what it is without them.

Looking ahead to reopening, we're excited to welcome old and new volunteers back to the cinema – and if you'd like to volunteer with us, head to our Opportunities page to find out more and register your interest. I've been speaking to a few of our past volunteers – familiar faces to many of you – and asking them to share their experience of volunteering at the Picture House.

“I have met loads of lovely people of all ages - staff, volunteers and customers. I also got to see films that I might not otherwise have gone to. I did it for 11 years, so it must have been ok!”

Lesly - former volunteer

Having such an amazing and enthusiastic group of people giving their time so generously really makes HPPH feel kind of magical. There’s a beauty in those acts of generosity that settles into the fabric of a place and infuses it with joy and positivity. From my first shift on the food and drinks kiosk almost a decade ago, I felt like I was part of something very special. The start of things often involves an awkward social dance and you’re usually left to figure out the steps on your own while others pirouette and twirl around you, but here I found a group of people who took the time to slow down for me, to share their knowledge and experience, and to make sure I felt like I was part of things.

“I was looking to get more involved in the arts and culture sector, and I couldn't think of a better place to start than HPPH. I love talking about films with other volunteers, staff and patrons. As well as getting to meet lots of interesting people, volunteering at HPPH gives you the opportunity to watch films for free too!”

Nathan - former volunteer

Many of us at HPPH started our time here as volunteers. Whether it was from wanting to help-out a place we loved, or just looking for something to fill the days, we found ourselves drawn together to become a part of this cool, magical thing. We found a space that seemed to be made just for us within this jumble of welcoming, weird and wonderful people, and we've been lucky enough to welcome so many others in turn. Volunteering has helped us make new friends, it’s expanded our view of art, culture, and community, and it’s given us the opportunity to see, share, and discuss lots and lots (and lots) of films.

And so, to all the volunteers who came before us, to all those we’ve been privileged to meet, and to all those to come: Thank you so flipping much!

Jos, Deputy Operations Manager

“It gave me so much sense of place and belonging being around the amazing staff and volunteers, who had confidence in me as a young person to do the actual stuff which kept the cinema doors open. Ideas always got heard and people there always had the foresight to help volunteers access more skills and opportunities. And you could always rock up to swoon over (or, sometimes, rip apart) whatever films were screening. I'm confident I wouldn't be doing what I do now without it!”

Joe - former volunteer & projectionist