Ian Reynolds reflects on going to the Strand over the years.

I was born and grew up in Ballybeen so the Strand was one of the nearest cinemas to us. It was still a bit of walk once you got off the bus on the Upper Newtownards Road though.

I was there several times when it was a single screen but the strongest memory is for Grease. Occasionally one of the parents in our row of houses would tell the others that they were going to the cinema and did their kids want to come.  So I think my mother took a party of at least 7 kids to Grease.

I was never at the venue when it was a variety theatre but was there on the night it reopened as a revamped cinema.  There were big queues and the owner was walking round the foyer in a tuxedo and a big smile.

I would go fairly regularly now and have attended many live events at the Strand as well as movies. I always enjoy the art deco styling of the Strand when I visit and the staff are very friendly (particularly George).

My favourite room is Screen One. You go through the door and then up the stairs and literally through the floor into this delightful sanctuary. A magic bubble where you and the audience are transported to wherever the film takes you.