How long has The Lexi been around and what’s its history? “The Lexi Cinema has been around since October 2008, but the building was an old Edwardian dance hall (you can see the original floors in part of The Constitutional Club). It was originally called Pinkham Hall after Colonel Pinkham who opened it in 1926. We think it may have been a theatre, then a gathering space, then an events space and a billiard hall.” What makes The Lexi special?
LEXI THE Welcome to London's only social enterprise cinema! Run by volunteers, the cinema has the local community running through its veins whilst supporting charity projects in South Africa. We spoke to Jane Hansom at The Lexi to learn more about this local landmark. 194B CHAMBERLAYNE RD, LONDON, NW10 3JU 28 MIN WALK FROM NWQ!
“It’s independent, local, a social enterprise, and a bit quirky! It has a strong ethos on environmental issues. We are supported by a large group of volunteers, many of whom go on to work in the industry, and locals love that something so unique is nearby. The Lexi was awarded a Lodestar Award
in 2021 by Film London, a real honour.” Why do you think The Lexi is so mportant for its community?
“We are a focal point for a very diverse group of local and further afield individuals who share a common love of film. We offer a range of community focused events and opportunities to people who may be lonely or new to the area. They can come and work in a safe environment with welcoming and empathetic people; it’s a unique space and somewhere to take friends to.” Anything else you’d like to tell us?
“Being a social enterprise is so important to us. We aim to make a profit like any other business, but it’s the commitment to use those profits to create positive social change that sets us apart. Our legal constitution specifies that we will donate all distributable profits to charity. This means that we’ll retain some profits to grow the positive impact of the business and donate the remainder.
"The Lexi front of house is staffed by a team of dedicated managers and an amazing team of local volunteers from all walks of life. It makes for a really unique atmosphere and a friendly welcome from the moment you step inside the front door.”
Walking times taken from google.co.uk/maps and are approximate only.
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