Community cinema opens its doors with a touch of style (From York Press)

South Bank Community Cinema opens with Cinema Paradiso screening

8:12am Thursday 2nd December 2010 in News

FILM lovers will be able to enjoy big screen classics by candlelight when a new community “luxury” cinema opens its doors.

The South Bank Community Cinema in Clements Hall, off Bishopthorpe Road, York is kicking off its debut screening tomorrow night at 8pm with Cinema Paradiso.

Operators hope to screen a selection of popular, classic, art house and foreign language films across the years for celluloid lovers of all ages.

Visitors are advised to arrive at 7:30pm to avoid disappointment, as tickets are selling fast.

The society was founded by a group of film enthusiasts seeking a more relaxed, intimate and social venue to enjoy a variety of films with a touch of luxury.

Group member Pete Kilbane said: “Every seat is at a table with table cloths and candlelight.

“The fully-licensed bar will be open before the film and during the interval, so you can sit and watch this charming film on a big screen with a glass of wine. What could be nicer?”

Originally opened in 1933 as St Clements Church parish hall, restoration began in 2008 aided by Government funding after the building fell into disrepair.

It reopened its doors earlier this year and now members hope the screenings will become a permanent fixture in the hall’s social calendar.

A special Christmas screening of the screen classic Casablanca will be shown on Saturday, December 18 , with films screened on a twice monthly basis thereafter.

The group welcomes volunteers who have enthusiasm, time and skills to offer – whether specialist film knowledge, technical ability or a willingness to lug furniture around. Tickets are available in advance from Cycle Heaven in Bishopthorpe Road, or on the door. Annual membership costs £5, then entry to each film costs £3 for members and £4 for guests. See bishyroad.net and the South Bank Community Cinema Facebook group for details.