It is going to be entertainment all the way as Newcastle prepares for the arrival of those ‘magnificent men and their flying machines’ for this year’s B/E Aerospace Festival of Flight.
The fun gets off to a flying start on Friday 8 August as U105 swoops into town for an outside broadcast, featuring the ever-popular Frank Mitchell and Johnny Hero. They will be creating their own particular brand of musical mayhem from 9am – 12noon and again from 3pm – 6pm just outside the Newcastle Centre on Central Promenade.
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Movie Crew: Leontia Haldenby, Rob Manley and Matthew Grainger from Newcastle Cinema Club join Eimear McKay and Michelle O’Hare from Eclipse Cinema to announce this year’s ‘Drive In’ movie as part of the BE Aerospace Festival of Flight. Cult comedy classic ‘Airplane’, staring Leslie Nielsen, will be shown on Friday 8 August in Donard Park at 10pm.[/caption]
A themed ‘Drive In’ movie will be providing a unique outdoor entertainment experience at Donard Park. The famous aviation comedy movie ‘Airplane’ will be shown, but according to Michael McLaughlin, Deputy Manager from Eclipse Cinemas who are supporting the event with Newcastle Community cinema, the magic isn’t restricted to what happens on-screen. Michael said: “There’s something really memorable about seeing a movie in unusual surroundings, and Donard Park will provide us with an amazing outdoor ‘theatre’ for the screening of Airplane. Expect a friendly, easy-going atmosphere with lots of craic between car loads of movie-buffs: a great night out for everyone!”
This is one cinema experience that is totally free of charge but tickets MUST be booked in advance through the Festival office and cars should arrive at least an hour before the show which begins at 10pm on Friday 8 August.
On Saturday 9 August, The Ulster Aviation Society will be providing a stunning exhibition featuring some of the most treasured artifacts in their impressive collection, including a genuine Spitfire Mark II plus an ejection seat produced by Crossgar inventor, James Martin. Check them out at the Aviation Village at Donard Park from 10am. If you just can’t wait until Saturday, advanced previews of the exhibition are being held in Newcastle Library from Monday 4 – Friday 8 August before it moves to the Aviation Village on Saturday.
Councillor William Walker, Chairman of Down District Council, had a sneak preview of that Spitfire when it became an eye-catching focal point of the Festival programme launch at the Slieve Donard Resort & Spa. Cllr Walker commented: “Having the chance to get up close and personal with this iconic aircraft took me right back to my childhood and the days when pilots were my comic book heroes.
“It was a fantastic experience and one I would recommend to anyone: just remember to bring your camera or even your mobile phone, for a selfie with a Spitfire. It really is a special sight.”
For further information or a FREE copy of the B/E Aerospace Festival of Flight Programme, contact Newcastle Visitor Information Centre on 028 4372 2222 or see full event listings online at: www.downdc.gov.uk or www.facebook.com/DownFestivals]]>
