Town theatre presents festive film at public premiere

An amateur theatre group in a North Yorkshire market town recently organized an exclusive public screening of a holiday movie featuring Kiefer Sutherland, Rebel Wilson, and Danny Dyer. The film, Sky Cinema's Tinsel Town, included scenes filmed in Knaresborough, Wetherby, and at Versa Studios in Leeds.

The screenings took place at Knaresborough's 127-seat Frazer Theatre ahead of the film's official release on Friday. Tickets for the two complimentary sessions sold out almost immediately.

A local resident, Matt, arranged the screening by reaching out to a Sky commissioning editor on LinkedIn. He commented, "Being a bit cheeky that day paid off." He added that while London had its formal red carpet premiere last week, this event represented the first true public premiere for the residents of Knaresborough.

Tinsel Town follows the story of a struggling Hollywood action star, played by Sutherland, whose last opportunity for success lies in performing theatre in England. Upon arriving in the UK, he discovers that his new role is a pantomime production of Cinderella in a small Yorkshire town.

Sian Pearce, secretary of the Knaresborough Players, the theatre's owner, expressed pride in hosting the Tuesday and Thursday screenings. "The audiences enthusiasm shows that people really want to experience this film in a theatre rather than at home," she said. "The crowd cheered at the first sight of Knaresborough, and there were even a few boos when Wetherby appeared on screen."

Interestingly, the amateur theatre groups own production this year is also Cinderella. Pearce noted, "The films tribute to regional theatre made showing it in our local theatre feel especially meaningful."

Attendees were welcomed by John Pearce, vice-chair of the Knaresborough Players, who humorously acknowledged the local excitement and minor online criticism over ticket scarcity. After the screening, he highlighted a particular scene that elicited laughter unique to the Knaresborough audience.

Matt described the event as "loosely organized but charming," and Kelly Young, another local resident, received permission to host additional screenings in nearby pubs. The towns involvement in filming earlier in the year brought renewed excitement for the release. Young noted that scenes were shot near her hair salon and showcased Knaresboroughs picturesque castle ruins and Christmas market.

The screening highlighted the towns charm and connection to the film, giving residents a rare chance to experience a cinematic premiere in their own community.

Author: Riley Thompson