Have you seen the Screen on the Green?
Open Air Cinema is back in Newcastle, with a vengeance! This year there will be two films every day (outside of the Olympics, when the games will be broadcast instead), from now until 4th September.
The new venue for 2016 is Eldon Gardens, just a short distance from Monument, so still a very central and accessible location. On Thursdays, screenings take place at our beloved Quayside Seaside, so you'll be able to enjoy some amazing Riley's Fish Shack delicacies while you view.
There's a great selection of films this year, appealing to a wide variety of audiences, so do take a look at the timetable and see what takes your fancy. Our Star Wars-mad children and my Star Wars-crazy husband and business partner were very excited to attend tonight's screening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Timing, Parking & Snacks
Unless otherwise stated, the evening film starts at 6 PM. Having experienced very busy viewings at the Monument Movies in previous years, I was keen to get there early to grab 4 chairs. We availed ourselves of the free parking after 5 PM in Eldon Square car park and took a short walk through the bus concourse and shops to the Green. We picked up a picnic tea from Greggs on the way through.
The deckchairs are pretty comfy, but there's plenty of room on the grass if you want to bring your own chairs or blanket. Despite rumbling buses, growling motorcycles, squealing sirens, squawking children, and a good deal of chattering, the audio system was spot on—really impressive. The screen quality isn’t crystal-clear, but it works well for an all-weather screen in glaring sunlight.
If you’re particular about cinema snacks, best come prepared!
Atmosphere & Community
The rules request the audience not to smoke, drink alcohol, or swear (staff enforce this where necessary), but you are welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.
The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with a lovely sense of community. Miss Mini-Apprentice noticed one movie-goer drop 5 pence. She gave it to him and he emptied his pocket and gave her all his change in gratitude! The family next to us shared their crisps with us, and we shared our popcorn with them. We hailed a friend we saw passing by, and he joined us for the rest of the film.
It feels somewhat like cinema trips today have lost a bit of excitement, but this was a real adventure to savour as a family, and a lot more community-focused than sitting in a darkened auditorium.
A Bustling & Vibrant Experience
With people coming and going throughout the film, and groups of young friends congregating to chat and laugh nearby, it’s a bustling and vibrant atmosphere. Just come along and give it a go!
If you’re looking for other exciting activities over the holidays, check out our blog about the Playground Project at the Baltic.
Do let us know what films you plan to see. Did you enjoy the experience as much as we did? We'd love to hear from you.
