Winter Circus seeks financiers to expand Cinema Rex after growing doubts about its future

In Ghent, doubts are rising regarding the future of the former Cinema Rex, purchased three years ago for 1.2 million euros. The initial plan was to create a 'House of Cinema', but skepticism from the sector and political signals suggest this may not happen. The Wintercircus is seeking funding from investors and tech entrepreneurs to support the project. A strategic note presented during the Film Fest Gent indicates a desire for a networking and educational hub for film, but questions arise about the feasibility of renovating the large building versus investing in smaller local initiatives. The total renovation cost could reach nearly 5 million euros, raising concerns about funding availability. Despite these challenges, curator Tom Van de Weghe is calling for a consortium to develop a sustainable proposal for the Cinema Rex.