Storyhouse enters BIFA's Cinema of the Year Award

The British Independent Film Awards (BIFA) Cinema of the Year award is returning for a second year – and Storyhouse has once again officially entered the prestigious national competition. 

Now the Chester cultural centre is calling on city cinemagoers to help it secure a coveted nomination for the 2026 award, which is supported by Kia.

Film fans and members of the community can vote for Storyhouse by visiting www.bifa.film/coty-vote

In July, cinemas nationwide were invited to enter and be in with a chance to be crowned this year’s Cinema of the Year – and now the power is in the audience’s hands.

The public vote closes on Monday, 21 September, with the longlist being revealed on 13 October. Five nominees will be announced on 3 November along with the rest of BIFA’s 2026 Award nominees.

From there, a specially selected jury of cinema professionals will decide the winner, to be revealed live at the BIFA ceremony on Sunday, 6 December, hosted at London’s iconic Roundhouse.

The big screen experience is irreplaceable – and so are the cinemas that provide it. BIFA’s Cinema of the Year award celebrates the venues that go beyond showing films, forming the centrepieces of their communities and bringing people together around the films that matter.

Since 2022, Kia has been a proud champion of independent cinema and the communities that surround it. Now in its second year, its partnership with BIFA on Cinema of the Year gives audiences across the UK the chance to get behind their local and celebrate what makes it special.

Nicky Beaumont, Head of Cinema at Storyhouse, said: “We are excited to announce that for the second year running Storyhouse is in the running for the BIFA Cinema of the Year award.

“Storyhouse is Chester’s only independent cinema, offering a hand-picked, year-round film programme alongside a range of community film clubs, dedicated charity screenings, opportunities for young people, accessible screenings and special events.

“Together our community has helped shape Storyhouse Cinema, and we’d love your support.”

BIFA directors Amy Gustin and Deena Wallace said: “The response to our first Cinema of the Year award was incredible, and we are so excited to bring it back for a second year. Last year, amazing cinemas from all over the UK entered to show just how much they mean to their local areas, and we hope to see that same brilliant support this year.

“This award is our way of recognising the value of independent cinemas to people and the industry, while celebrating the hardworking teams behind the screens and the loyal audiences who support them.”

And Steve Hicks, Marketing Director of Kia UK Limited, added: “We are proud to once again support this award and uncover the best cinema in the UK. Film enthusiasts love celebrating their favourite movies during awards season, but now they can also celebrate the best venues for enjoying these films.

“Nothing compares to the ‘big screen’ experience for those eager to fully immerse themselves in the latest releases, especially when cinemas are so central to their local communities. We are excited to collaborate with the British Independent Film Awards to once again recognise the cinemas providing film fans with the most memorable and enjoyable experiences.”

Vote for Storyhouse by visiting www.bifa.film/coty-vote