By Laurelle Walsh
The third annual Celestial Cinema presents three evenings of films under the stars on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (Aug. 21 – 23) at Spring Creek Ranch in Winthrop.
Hosted by local screenwriter and film buff Sarah Berns, this year’s selections include Babe on Thursday, Grease on Friday, and Frozen on Saturday. Tickets are $10 for adults; kids under 10 get in free.
Food service begins at 6:30 p.m., with a variety of grilled meats by B&S Barbecue; falafel, Greek salad and kebabs by Arrowleaf Bistro; baked goods and coffee by Rocking Horse Bakery; and homemade ice cream sandwiches for dessert.
Beer from Methow Valley Brewing and Old Schoolhouse Brewery, and wine from Lost River Winery will also be available.
Activities for kids 3 and up start at 7:30 p.m., with a craft project geared to each night’s film offering, a coloring contest, and ping pong ball races with prizes.
Films start promptly at 8:30 p.m. A generator capable of powering the projector and sound system will be standing by in case of a power outage. “We will have power no matter what,” said Berns.
“Each year I try to find movies that are interesting and appropriate for all ages,” Berns said. “Babe was a natural,” because kids fall in love with the talking animals and the themes are universal.
Grease is an experiment in the musical genre for Berns, who believes the catchy, fun songs will appeal to all, and parents will enjoy sharing a favorite film from their own childhood with the next generation.
The 2013 Disney hit Frozen “has an incredibly well-done story, screen writing and characters,” said Berns. “It will also be a nice break to be in a frozen, snowy world in the middle of a fiery summer. People want to be taken to a different world for a few hours.”
Celestial Cinema is able to present a three-night event this year after a “very successful Kickstarter campaign last year,” which confirmed the community’s support for the outdoor film festival, Berns said.
“I want it to be a sweet time for people to come together, socialize, and leave their cares behind,” said Berns.
Proceeds from Thursday’s show support Little Star School, Friday supports The Merc Playhouse, and Saturday supports The Cove.
Spring Creek Ranch is located at 22 Belsby Road, just past the Winthrop Town Trailhead. Seating is on the lawn, and viewers should bring their own chairs and blankets. Dogs are not allowed. For more information go to springcreekwinthrop.com/celestial-cinema/.
