Wonderland Volunteers Wanted
Last year we launched Wonderland, a project all about the history of cinemas and film-going in Birmingham. Together with a team of research volunteers and associates we uncovered amazing stories, like the beautiful miniature Odeon New Street made by Jewellery Quarter diamond cutter Cyril Barbier or memories of Eric Turland, Britain’s oldest living cinema organist.
These and hundreds of other stories were shared and collected via a programme of exhibitions and events, and through the launch of a brand new website - wonderlandbirmingham.co.uk. As well as continuing to seek out movie-going memories (there’s plenty still to discover) we are now on a mission to map all 150+ Birmingham cinemas on this new site.
That’s where you come in! We are looking for a team of volunteers to help us continue to map Birmingham’s cinema-going heritage; helping us to find new materials and build up our knowledge of Birmingham’s lost cinemas.
What will the research cover?
A deep dive into specific cinemas - past or present - in the city. We’re looking for some basic information (such as what the building is used for today or who designed it) as well as images, press clippings, video footage or archive programmes to help bring each cinema page to life.
At the heart of this project is the memories and stories of Brummies, and depending which cinemas you are researching there may be opportunities to interview people or record oral histories.
We are always on the hunt for Birmingham cinema stories more generally - just get in touch: wonderland@flatpackfestival.org.uk
What will the role involve?
Between February and June you will don your detective cap and delve into online archives, visit museums, libraries and collections (where required) and take part in monthly meet ups with the wider Wonderland team, to share findings and tips (as well as a cuppa!)
In return, volunteers will have a brilliant opportunity to meet people, develop new research skills, and contribute to an exciting city-wide project which will preserve our film heritage for generations to come.
How do I apply?
If you’re interested, please fill out this expression of interest form by midday Tuesday 14 February 2023:
If you have any questions, check our information sheet linked below, or get in touch with us at wonderland@flatpackfestival.org.uk
Wonderland Volunteers Info Sheet (Word Doc)
Wonderland Volunteers Info Sheet (PDF)