Telford Film Festival gets off to a flying start as hundreds of families enjoy HOPPERS screening
More than 200 families attended the opening screening of this year's Telford Film Festival as Disney Pixar's HOPPERS officially launched the programme at Harper Adams University. The successful event marked the first of a series of free and low-cost outdoor cinema screenings taking place across Telford and Wrekin this summer.
The family-friendly screening welcomed over 200 families, bringing residents together for an afternoon of entertainment, community spirit and summer fun.
Councillor Angela McClements, Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Leisure, said: "It was fantastic to see so many families enjoying the opening screening of the Telford Film Festival. The atmosphere was wonderful, and the event showed exactly what the festival is all about – bringing communities together through accessible and affordable cultural experiences.
“We're delighted that so many residents joined us for the launch, and we look forward to welcoming even more people to screenings across the Borough throughout August."
The event also celebrated local competition winner Melissa Chamberlain, a teaching assistant and mother of two, who won free family vouchers and complimentary food for the screening.
Melissa attended with her children, Reuben and Olivia, and said: "We had such a lovely time. The film was fantastic and the atmosphere was brilliant. Winning the competition made the day even more special, and we're grateful for the free tickets and food. It was a great opportunity to spend quality time together as a family.”
Professor Ken Sloan, Vice-Chancellor of Harper Adams University, said: "We were delighted to host the opening event of the Telford Film Festival and welcome families from across the region onto our campus. Events like this help strengthen community connections and demonstrate the important role that education institutions can play in supporting cultural activities that are enjoyed by people of all ages."
The opening screening forms part of the inaugural Telford Film Festival programme, delivered through Telford Theatre on Tour, which is bringing cinema experiences directly into local communities while Oakengates Theatre undergoes refurbishment.
The remaining festival programme includes:
- Sing 2 – 7 August, Broadoaks, Donnington
- Encanto Singalong – 11 August, Oakengates Theatre Square – FREE
- Rio 2 – 21 August, Telford Town Park – FREE
- Wicked – 21 August, Telford Town Park – FREE
- Matilda – 23 August, Telford Town Park – FREE
Residents are encouraged to book early, even the free ones to secure a place, and enjoy a summer of free and low-cost outdoor cinema experiences across the Borough. Further details are available via the Telford Theatre website.