Movies on the Common Beginning This Week
Monday, June 17, 2013
The Worcester Common Oval: A unique setting to watch a familiar film. Photo courtesy of Louie Despres
Worcester Film Works has announced the dates and movies that are to be part of the third annual Movies on the Common. The three include two 80's comedy classics, Ferris Bueller's Day Off and Ghostbusters, and the critically-acclaimed animated film, The Fantastic Mr. Fox. The films will be shown on June 20th, July 18th, and August 15th. All shows are free for the public and are held at the Worcester Common Oval.
This is the third year of WFW sponsoring the Movies on the Common series. The goal of WFW’s Movies on the Common series is to use popular movies and live, local music to help bring nightlife to the heart of the city on a weekday summer evening. WFW is run by a small group of volunteers who are dedicated to fostering the development of a diverse and active 18 hour downtown Worcester.
The film showings bring many benefits to the Worcester community, both tangible and intangible, as Eric Kuczarski of Worcester Film Works explains.
"They benefit the community I think in two ways primarily. One, they help work towards changing the perception that downtown Worcester is a place to be avoided, especially in the evening. Every show we see hundreds of people with dozens of entertainment options choose to spend their evening on the Worcester Common," he remarks.
"And two, It supports the economic redevelopment of the city. We have local food vendors at our shows. People stop at local stores and restaurants to pickup food and drinks to consume on the Common. People go out to other local restaurants, bars, etc. in the area either before or after the show."
As stated, live music and great eats will also be on hand at each showing. Bands start at 6 pm and the movies at dusk. Bands for the June show are Niki Luparelli and the Gold Diggers with The 7 Hills Ukulele Combo. Bands for future shows will be announced at a later date.
A Community Night at the Movies
There are clearly numerous reasons why Worcester residents of all ages would want to check out one, two or even all three of these events.
"Of course fans of the movies themselves should attend to enjoy their favorite movies in a unique setting. It is certainly a different experience watching Ghostbusters on a giant screen with Worcester City Hall and downtown as your backdrop," says Eric.
"It is also a great opportunity to check out some local musical talent that you otherwise might not have the opportunity to see. All of the bands we bring in have Worcester connections. Most are accustom to playing on small stages in bars and enjoy the bigger stage and opportunity to play in front of a much more diverse audience than they are familiar with."
Sponsors of the movie series include The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation; Worcester Arts Council and the Massachusetts Cultural Council; Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Reliant Medical Group.
Food vendors will include Mediterranean Hut and Dogfather, and WFW will be selling popcorn and drinks. Woosta Pizza and Theatre Café offer delivery service to the Common.
Rain dates are the following Thursdays. You are encouraged to bring your own picnic basket, blanket and chairs. Parking is available on the street or in the McGrath (Library) parking lot, and meters are free after 8 pm.
For up to the minute information, visit www.WorcesterFilmWorks.org.
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