Al fresco cinema in birr

A free al fresco pop-up cinema is planned for Birr today (Thursday) as part of the OFFline Film Festival.

This evening’s screening will take place in Market Square in the town, and will offer locals an opportunity to watch the silent 1926 movie ‘The General’.

“This project is about engaging the local community to come along for the free viewings of old movies, al fresco,” organisers explained.

“It is about energising the downtown area of Birr’s main shopping street. It is about encouraging a good-humoured mix of young and old cinema buffs, artists, filmmakers, tourists and visitors to discover new delights in the heart of Birr. It is about creating a positive focus on Market Square for the local community of residents to participate in a people-centred social event.”

Tonight’s project screen will be the gable wall of the Market House Tavern. The street will be closed from 9pm, with the movie scheduled to start at 9.30pm.

Running for one hour, ‘The General’ is the story of Johnnie Gray, a train engineer living and operating out of Georgia during the Civil War. He has two loves in his life - his train, the General, and his girl, Annabelle Lee.

When words hits town that war is on its way, Annabelle’s father and brother join the efforts of the Confederacy. Annabelle convinces Johnnie to enlist too, but the army won’t take him on as he’s too vital to the war effort as an engineer.

Spotted by Annabelle’s father and brother leaving the station, Annabelle presumes Johnnie walked away of his own accord and tells him not to speak to her again until he’s in uniform.

Some time later the Union army hijack Johnnie’s train with Annabelle unknowingly on board. Thus begin’s Johnnie’s quest, to catch the train and thwart the Union’s plot .

‘The General’ is suitable for all audiences. Limited seating will be available, but patrons are welcome to bring their own in addition. While admission is free, donations will be welcome to Art-Aid.