Outdoor cinema a hit again as sell-out crowds enjoy top films

Tamworth’s fourth outdoor cinema event was a resounding success with sell-out crowds enjoying an evening of singing, dancing and entertainment under the stars in the Castle Grounds.

This year’s screenings of Dirty Dancing and The Lost Boys on Saturday August 13 both sold out within just a week of going on sale, giving 1,300 lucky people the chance to watch classic movies shown on a big screen in the great outdoors.

The earlier showing of Dirty Dancing was enjoyed by 850 people who sang and danced along to the 1987 romantic classic starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. Everyone was on their feet for the final song (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life and the film closed to rapturous applause.

This was followed by a midnight silent screening of cult comedy horror The Lost Boys, providing thrills and spills for another 450 cinema-goers.

The event, organised by Tamworth Borough Council’s Arts & Events team, has received some great positive feedback across social media and customer satisfaction surveys. The latter revealed 100% of survey participants thought it was ‘excellent’ and 100% would attend again.

Facebook reviews of Dirty Dancing included Lynne Weldon who wrote: “Had a fab evening; thanks for organising such a well run event. Can’t wait for the next one.”
Suzanne Kempson said: “Absolutely amazing night!!! Perfect screen, great sound and beautiful surroundings. Very well run event. Thank you! Loved the dancing at the end too!”

The Lost Boys cinema goer Sarah Scrivens said: “Fantastic night, really well organised. Really hope you do another one.”
Jo Pritchard added: “Fantastic night, definitely doing it again!”

The outdoor cinema has become a popular feature on the town’s annual events calendar since its first outing with Mamma Mia and The Rocky Horror Picture Show four years ago.

Cllr Joy Goodall, Tamworth Borough Council’s Cabinet member for Environment & Culture, said: “The Arts & Events team has delivered another successful outdoor cinema with popular films and, by all accounts, a fantastic atmosphere. This event seems to be growing in popularity all the time and I’m already looking forward to seeing what’s in store for next year. I’d advise anyone who missed out this year to make sure they get in early next time.”