As part of Our Freedom: Then and Now, Strand Arts Centre will be hosting a special immersive event on the evening of Friday 7 November in the fascinating former Strand Spinning Mill. This unique space, which offers spectacular views across the city, and which survived the Belfast Blitz despite extensive damage in its locality, is a perfect site to reflect on change and constancy in east Belfast and to probe how concepts of freedom have changed over the last 80 years since the end of World War Two.

The showcase event will feature a photographic exhibition within the former mill floor, alongside the premieres of two short films. Freedom was written, directed and performed by young people under the mentorship of Michael MacBroom, on location at the Portview Trade Centre. And a new film by Will McConnell weaves together oral history, archival footage and photographs, alongside contemporary footage and photographs, to reflect on the impact of WW2 on East Belfast and how concepts of freedom have evolved since 1945.

Drop in, no booking required. Refreshments served.

On Saturday 8 November, 11am – 2pm, there will be another chance to catch the exhibition and films in this spectacular space.