Following the success of last year’s Summer Series, it’s once again fast approaching that time of year where the Hellenic Museum will start to transform its courtyard pavilion each Saturday night into an outdoor cinema.
Running over two months through February and March, Melburnians will have the pleasure of viewing classic favourites from the golden era of Greek cinema on the big screen under the stars.
Curated by the Hellenic Museums’ CEO and former film producer and director John Tatoulis, the program so far includes films such as Michael Cacoyannis’ Oscar winning classic Zorba the Greek (1964), award-winning political thriller Z (1969) and Melina Mercouri’s career defining and Cannes winning film Never on Sunday (1960).
With Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday next year, those of you looking for a fresh way to spend the night can enjoy a special screening of Lewis Gilbert’s BAFTA winner Shirley Valentine (1989).
Cinemagoers will also have the chance of viewing a number of other classics from the ’60s, with some of Greek cinema’s greatest talents that helped to define cinema from that period including the likes of Aliki Vougiouklaki, Dimitris Papamichael and Irene Papas.
The return of cinema under the stars will also see the come back of renowned restaurateur Con Christopoulos’ pop-up Pagoto (ice-cream) serving up an array of gelato flavours from the Spring Street Grocer.
It’s a contemporary take on traditional methods of gelato making, with every scoop harking back to the flavours of Greece, including ouzo, baklava and rosewater.
To accompany Christopoulos’ treats, viewers will also be treated to the new vibrant outdoor pop-up cafe Καφέ.
Patrons will be able to enjoy traditional Greek mezze including tasty dips, such as fava, along with slow cooked lamb, chargrilled delights and fresh Greek salads to be accompanied with the best Greek wines and Mythos beer.
Commencing on February 7 and opening its doors at 6.00 pm, the first half of the Summer Cinema program for 2015 includes:
Saturday 7 February: Never on Sunday (1960)
Saturday 14 February: Shirley Valentine (1989)
Saturday 21 February: Z (1969)
Saturday 28 February: The Slap that Came from Paradise (1959)
Sunday 8 March:
Zorba the Greek (1964)
With doors opening a little earlier, patrons are given the chance to enjoy a complete night out with food and drink from start to finish with screenings commencing soon after sunset.
All films will be screened in the original Greek language, but with English subtitles.
Tickets are now on sale, with the second half of the program to be released in early 2015.
The summer cinema series will take place at the Hellenic Museum, 280 William Street, Melbourne (the former Royal Mint Melbourne). To purchase tickets online visit www.eventbrite.com.au/o/summer-cinema-7827273041, adult $18 or concession $15.