Wales’ oldest cinema has successfully combined philanthropy and a love for film by organizing a marathon film screening to raise funds for the charity Ty Hafan, setting an unprecedented world record in the process.
- The Market Hall in Brynmawr, noted as Wales’ oldest cinema, raised over £1000 for Ty Hafan by orchestrating a record-breaking event.
- A unique ‘repeat’ screening of the classic film ‘Groundhog Day’ was held, drawing more than 100 attendees.
- The screening, which featured the movie being shown five consecutive times, achieved an unofficial world record.
- Filmmakers and audience members both celebrated this community achievement, which was capped off by the involvement of notable Hollywood figures.
Wales’ oldest cinema, the Market Hall in Brynmawr, orchestrated a groundbreaking charitable event that merged community spirit with cinematic history. This event not only raised over £1000 in support of the Welsh charity Ty Hafan but also achieved a potential world record for the most repeat screenings of a film with a stable audience. The classic film ‘Groundhog Day’ was chosen for this unique occasion, aligning perfectly with its theme of repetition.
The event attracted more than 100 cinema-goers, eager to participate in the unprecedented experience. Impressively, 14 dedicated attendees remained throughout the duration of the overnight screening marathon, which spanned from 10 PM on a Friday to 8 AM the following Saturday. During this time, the film was shown five times consecutively, each screening maintaining the interest and energy of the attendees.
Peter Watkins-Hughes, a film director associated with the cinema, expressed confidence in the success of their world record attempt, citing the absence of any prior record of its kind. The cinema’s manager, Ralph Price, shared the enthusiasm, noting the joy and pride shared among staff and patrons. Acknowledging the endurance of one film enthusiast, Cameron Eynon was awarded a certificate for his perseverance through the ‘Groundhog Day’ odyssey.
Contributors to the cinematic event extended beyond local participants. Hollywood screenwriter Danny Rubin and music composer George Fenton sent messages of encouragement, adding prestige to the occasion. Rubin humorously reminded the audience of his contribution to the film’s witty lines, while Fenton remarked on the late director Harold Ramis’ would-be appreciation of the initiative.
Importantly, the fundraising effort significantly benefited the Ty Hafan Children’s Hospice, known for its support to families in challenging times. Testimonials from beneficiaries highlight the charity’s invaluable impact, underscoring the significance of such community-driven initiatives. A poignant account from a mother, Lucy Froley, illustrated how Ty Hafan provided essential support and cherished memories during her son Ezra’s brief life.
The Market Hall event exemplifies the powerful synergy between community support and creative innovation, culminating in both a charitable triumph and a cinematic milestone.
