New film society ghosts into Harpenden

A NEW Harpenden Film Society has been created which will show films on a fortnightly basis at the Public Halls from September.

The society, which is now open for founder membership, will be launching its first season with a showing of The Ghost – Roman Polanski’s thriller about a Tony Blair-like PM’s dirty secrets – on Tuesday, September 7.

It will show films roughly every two weeks on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings from 8pm and tickets will be �4.50 for non-members and �3.50 for members.

Two test screenings were held in May and June and were very successful. Sean Gough, the society’s founder, said: “Both sold out very quickly, without any advertising, so we are confident there is a demand in the town for this sort of film.

“We received a lot of positive feedback from the test audiences, particularly about the relaxing, informal atmosphere – drinks from the bar and some delicious food and cakes probably have something to do with this. The feedback also said that it’s a good idea to bring a cushion as the seating in the Public Halls is a little on the hard side.”

The film society is not for profit and aims to purchase its own projection and audio equipment as soon as possible rather than renting.

Sean explained: “Membership fees are what will make this society viable. We hope to raise money from sponsorship and grants in the longer term but to start with membership fees will be what determines whether this initiative is successful.”

Founder membership costs �30 for 12 months or �50 for dual membership but once the AV equipment is in place, the society expects to be able to reduce annual membership fees substantially. Among the benefits to membership are priority booking, ticket discounts, participation in key society decisions and the opportunity to help choose future films.

To join as a founder member go to www.harpendenfilmsociety.co.uk and click on Programme and Tickets.