Dog-friendly outdoor cinema returns
It’s said they’re man’s best friend, but would you take your poochy pal for a night at the movies?
This Christchurch outdoor cinema festival is all about relaxing with an icecream under the night sky – and if you can’t find a friend to come along, bring your dog to cuddle up with instead.
Launching its second season in the city with Bohemian Rhapsody, a celebration of everything Queen, on March 1, the American Express Openair Cinemas will run for a month at Rauora Park, on the corner of Lichfield St and Huanui Ln.
Films including A Star is Born, Aquaman and Bumblebee, and a selection of familyfriendly titles such as How to Train Your Dragon 2, Mary Poppins Returns and Instant Family will light up the big screen on rotation. Performers, including live music and a DJ, will also be on site to entertain crowds while they wait for sunset.
An event spokeswoman said they had a ‘‘great response’’ to last year’s screening and no-one had complained about dogs causing trouble. Pups must be on a leash at all times.
‘‘As with any dog owner, in any public situation, it is the responsibility of the owner to look after their dog . . . we strongly recommend owners checking the film’s content prior to bringing their dog, as films with lots of gunfire can startle dogs.’’
Despite video being just a click away on any device, retro outdoor cinemas are enjoying a comeback in Christchurch.
Leighs Construction Outdoor Cinema ran for several months by gold coin donation at the Arts Centre and attracted crowds during warm weather with the last movie of the summer shown on February 9.
As the cinema travelled often, it was not always possible to run the theatre in Christchurch over the height of summer. The cinema could be running in up to five locations at one time, the spokeswoman said. Christchurch was the last stop on the event’s Australasian tour, after ticking off festivals in Auckland, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane and five other Australian centres. If it rained tickets were allocated to another screening.
An on-site bar would sell wine, beer and cocktails for people’s mid-movie cravings. Cinema classics including popcorn, ice cream, lollies and chocolate would also be available for purchase. Alternatively, moviegoers were welcome to pack a picnic. A VIP area with table service and a glass of wine was available for those wanting to treat themselves.
Gates to the cinema open at 6pm, with movies starting at sunset – about 8pm. A general admission ticket gives access to the site but does not include seating.
A blanket or lounger could be hired for an additional fee.