Curtains up at new Black Isle picture house
Eilean Dubh Care Home in Fortrose has officially opened a new picture house, Chanonry View, offering residents a dedicated space to enjoy films, performances, and digital storytelling.
The project was made possible thanks to the expertise of Andrew and Rodger Dowsett, whose mother Lilah – a resident at Eilean Dubh – formally opened the cinema during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by residents, staff and guests.
To mark the occasion, residents were treated to a screening of Calamity Jane, with staff on hand to serve popcorn, issue tickets and welcome guests on a red carpet.
Chanonry View features a large 4K screen, blackout blinds, surround sound and a high-spec projector system. The space will be used for a wide range of activities, including film screenings, music events, sporting highlights, family video viewings and photographic displays. Andrew and Rodger designed the room, advised on the most suitable equipment, and carried out the full installation.
Manager Alexis Le Neven said: "This has been a real team effort, and we’re delighted to see it brought to life. The new picture house will help create shared experiences for residents and their families – whether that’s watching a favourite film, revisiting personal memories or sharing family videos. It adds something special to daily life here at Eilean Dubh. Special thanks go to Andrew and Rodger, whose support was instrumental in delivering the project.”
The cinema complements a range of activities at Eilean Dubh, including creative arts, music sessions, intergenerational programmes.
