A REAL-life action-packed adventure unfolded when the Minehead-based Regal Film Society’s new £16,000 high-tech screen was installed.
A hole had to be made in a wall the side of the theatre – at first-floor level – because the electronic roller screen is eight metres wide and the lay-out of the building prevented any other route in.
The wall was then bricked up as a team of volunteers helped to manoeuvre the screen into place.
The new cinema screen, which was bought after the society raised more than £20,000, had travelled all the way from the manufacturers in Italy.
Its first ‘task’ was to show ‘Franz’, last Tuesday, and it will be in use again next Tuesday (October 17) for a special public screening of 2001: A Space Odyssey to coincide with Exmoor National Park’s Dark Skies Festival (see page 8).
The Regal Film Society, which is one of the largest in the country and a registered charity, was founded more than 20 years ago.
Chairman Victoria Thomas said: “We are delighted that our new screen is now up and running. It has improved the projected image no end and given the picture greater richness and depth
“It also allows us to go on to our next development – live streaming of performances from top arts venues such as the Royal Opera House.”
It is hoped that live streaming will start in the new year after the installation of equipment needed to receive the broadcasts.
Meanwhile, the society has announced that, because of its growing popularity a cap will now have to be placed on membership. There are nearly 500 members and the total will be capped at 600, with a waiting list for people wishing to join after the cap is reached.