Maona Cinema opened its doors to the public on 25 November 2025. Following in the footsteps of the much-loved KinoKulture, which closed its doors in 2024, Maona is proud to continue to deliver independent and world cinema to Oswestry’s community and rural area.
Maona Cinema, pronounced Ma-oh-na, derives its name from the Shona language of Zimbabwe, where it means “You have seen.” Maona Cinema was born out of Maona Art, a creative initiative founded by Tatenda Jamera in 2021. Tatenda, who is a filmmaker and African film curator used to program the African film screenings at Kinokulture during its 10-year success.
“We are immensely proud to have chosen Oswestry as the location for our first home. This vibrant town provides us with the perfect opportunity to cultivate and highlight the diverse world of cinema, with stories and cultures from every corner of the globe,” says Tatenda.
As well as a diverse selection of films, Maona hopes to engage with local community groups, schools, young people and charities to bring the magic of cinema and events together. Please get in touch with Holly if you’d like to discuss an idea or project: holly@maonacinema.com.
Maona Cinema is set to show films from Thursday to Sunday, with a varied mix of blockbusters to classics, foreign offerings to children’s films – and is looking to bring back the popular National Theatre Live events. There is a bar with a small offering of drinks and snacks.
Maona Cinema is located just opposite Oswestry Library on Arthur Street. Films coming up to look out for in December include Christmas Karma, Dreamers, The Choral and Animalia.
Visit www.maonacinema.com for details and bookings. Follow on Facebook @maonacinema and Instagram @maona.cinema
Pictures: Graham Mitchell.
