Ayr drive-in movies back with Scottish-themed screening

It’s time to get the popcorn out as drive-in movies with a community feel are back this month.

The Iris are bringing the best of the homeland to the big screen with their Scottish-themed weekend from Friday, May 28 to Sunday, May 30 at Rozelle Park, Ayr.

Movies include classics synonymous with Scotland like Braveheart and Trainspotting; family favourites including Brave, Shrek and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban; and life-affirming tales including Wild Rose and Gregory’s Girl – which recently celebrated its 40th anniversary.

The Iris director Ross Hunter said: “We feel that the Scottish film industry was blossoming before COVID-19 and then clearly took a knock so we want to give back to that.

“We’ve got different elements of the community involved who are going to be showcasing wee pieces. We’ve got Ayr Grammar who are doing a BSL performance of My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose to be screened before the film.

“It’s things like that, that will go before the film, which make it feel a bit more local, a bit more engaged.

“We’ve kept our ticket price the same because we always want to keep it affordable, that’s the key thing.

“The last time we did it we were in the middle of a storm so we’re hoping for slightly better weather this time!”

Food vendors will also be at Rozelle again to quench thirsts and feed hungry viewers.

Ross added: “We’ve confirmed The Ghillie Dhu again, and sticking with the Scottish theme, we’re really glad that Ghillie Dhu are supporting us with this.

“Michael is setting up his own menu for it; he’s got a specific menu to all the films that are screening.”

The Iris have been busy throughout the lockdowns conjuring up new projects including a mobile cinema, silent discos and have set up a 'Screen Academy' teaching youngsters film-making skills.

They’ve also been working hard on getting their venue, at the former Darlington Church and Borderline Theatre on Main Street in Ayr, ready to open its doors.

Ross said: “Because the venue hasn’t been able to be open, we want to make sure we’re still active.

“The venue is taking its time because of COVID-19. We’ve raised enough funds to get a significant amount of work done.

“Sadly, we don’t have an opening date yet but we want to make sure we get things done right rather than rush them.”

Community groups wanting to get involved in a slice of the action with screening features can get in touch at hello@theirisayr.com

For tickets, £25 per car, and movie times, visit https://www.theirisayr.com/drive-in-movies

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