Cinema, comedy and theatre
The Lonsdale Alhambra cinema is located in the heart of Penrith town centre. Showing the latest films as well as smaller independent films on Sunday evenings.
The 100-year-old cinema was under threat of closure in early 2011 but a petition and public campaign, that included support from actor Richard E Grant and comedian Eddie Izzard, ensured that the lease on the building was extended for another ten years.
Richard E Grant, whose cult 1987 film Withnail and I was filmed in and around Haweswater and Penrith, added his name to the thousands already collected.
Darren Horne, manager of the cinema and former National Diploma Film and Media lecturer at the University of Cumbria, said: "This seemed like a David and Goliath fight and in the real world David takes a beating. Not so. It seems that if you get enough 'David’s' together the impossible can be achieved.
"I can speak for the whole team when I say we have been overwhelmed by the support from people not just from Penrith, but all over the world."
Theatre
Penrith Players put on community productions, with opportunities to act or help with behind the scenes production. They also host a number of live music events throughout the year.
The Leisure Centre in Penrith attracts some big names through out the year. The Sands Centre in Carlisle also hosts national touring companies and popular acts.