Outdoor flick fun in Kentville

By Amy Smith

As the sun fades in Kentville’s Centre Square, the excitement rises.

Families perched on blankets and lawn chairs make sure their corn was popped and readyI July 4 was the first ever Centre Square Movie Night, featuring The Spiderwick Chronicles. Approximately 150 people came out to enjoy the film - outdoors.

The movie night was the first of two planned this summer. Both free, the movie nights foster Kentville’s sense of community, and offer families a fun evening of entertainment. Movie goers are also invited to bring a donation for the local foodbank.

Organizer Erin Masons says the idea isn’t a new one. The Atlantic Theatre Festival’s Al Fresco Festival, and showings like it, inspired Kentville to put together this family oriented event. Through the work of Mason and a team of volunteers, the open-air cinema has come to life. Kentville Parks and Recreation provided a canteen, while AVR/94.9 donated the screen and equipment. First night presenting sponsor was The Barrett Group.

Mason says this summer’s movie nights are just a small step in creating a more cohesive community in the town. Those behind the show are also hoping, by holding more town events like this and the Wednesday market, Kentville will be able to take back some of its shared space.

Kentville council has been dealing with problems of loiterers in the square for some time, at one point even discussing taking down the centre square gazebo. “It’s an opportunity for the town to recapture the space for the whole community, and not just a select few,” says mayor David Corkum. “It’s a wonderful thing to bring life to downtown Kentville on a Friday night.”

Grace Morine of Kentville was there with a blanket full of children. “They’re pretty excited,” she said. “I think it’s a great idea, - it gives the kids something to do.”

Toni Bennett shared her feelings with the mayor. “Sir, this is an awesome idea. The families of the community thank you.”

She brought her brood to see the flick instead of spending the night at home. “We heard about it and said the heck with a plain old sleepover. I’ve got two very excited five-year-olds saying, ‘We get to sit outside and watch a movie!?’”

Now showing

August 8: The Bee Movie. For information, call 679-2594. Free admission, bring a lawnchair or blanket.