Great Kitten: Is this the world's first cat cinema?
Crouch End's new cinema could have plenty of catmosphere
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What could be better than sitting slurping from a giant cup and throwing back popcorn as you enjoy the latest movie with a fluffy pussycat sitting on your lap?
Well, that’s the opinion of a London couple who are hoping to open what is believed to be the world’s first cat cinema.
Following on from the success of Britain’s first cat café, Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium, Paula Siedlecka, 25, and William Piper, 24, have launched a crowdfunding bid for their moggy picturehouse.
The Great Kitten project needs £55,000 to get off the ground and nearly 50 people have already contributed although only £1,265 has so far been raised.
The organisers claim the benefits of a cat cinema include helping to reduce stress, enhancing moods and combating loneliness among Londoners.
The couple plan to adopt 10 homeless cats who are known to enjoy the presence of humans who will be free to roam around the cinema, as well as “non-human zones, the Evening Standard reports.
The venture aims to raise awareness of cat welfare and will also work with charities to provide “cat therapy” for people suffering with mental health problems, learning difficulties or life-threatening illnesses. They are currently in talks with some high profile charities over the work they plan to do.
A statement on the campaign page said: “A cat cinema is a place where you can unwind and relax with a cuppa, a cake, a cat on your lap all while watching a movie.
“We will adopt 10 homeless cats who are sociable, friendly towards humans and comfortable in the presence of other cats.
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“We are passionate about animal welfare, and we will work closely with an animal shelter to assist them in rehoming their rescue cats through our ‘cat wall’ and our social media platforms.”
It follows a wave of animal-themed cafes opening in London, with an owl café, dog café and a micro-pig picnic all opening this year.
Ms Siedlecka and Mr Piper said they hope to open the cinema in Crouch End, North London and the venue will have a “rustic style log-cabin atmosphere”.
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