Showcase Cinema in Birstall set to screen National Theatre Live productions tomorrow

Showcase Cinema de Lux announced it will be screening a series of theatre productions including productions from National Theatre Live.

From tomorrow, Showcase Cinemas will be screening a star-studded line up of productions, courtesy of National Theatre Live, meaning that you can watch your favourite blockbusters as well as stage performances all under one roof for just £5.

A spokewoman from the cinema chain said: "Theatres might not be able to open just yet, but that does not mean you cinema-goers cannot enjoy spectacular shows."

"Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s award-winning hit, Fleabag, will be returning to Showcase this month.

"This hilarious one-woman play that inspired the BBC’s hit TV show by the same name was a hit when broadcast live from London’s West End to cinemas in 2019.

"Also joining the Event Cinema line-up is provocative comedy, Present Laughter, directed by Matthew Warchus at The Old Vic. Starring famous face Andrew Scott, star of the BBC’s Sherlock and Fleabag, this play’s depiction of modern day fame is a captivating must-see.

"If it’s a love story you’re after, check out Cyrano de Bergerac, starring James McAvoy.

"This powerful adaptation from The Jamie Lloyd Company follows Cyrano as he tries to win over Roxanne using his eloquent way with words."

Showcase are planning an ongoing programme of National Theatre Live plays throughout this year to help support the wider theatre industry. Theatres are still unable to stage live performances indoors and currently have no date for reopening.

Throughout 2020, Showcase will also show performances from Tom Hiddleston in Coriolanus, Gwendoline Christie in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Sir Ian McKellen in King Lear, and Sally Field and Bill Pullman in All My Sons.

James Dobbin, Director of Event Cinema, UK & International, Showcase Cinemas, said: “We’re really excited to announce that we will be screening a number of plays from National Theatre Live.

"It’s been a tough time for the theatre industry and theatre fans, so we’d like to show our support by bringing these performances to the big screen for fans to enjoy.”

Speaking about National Theatre Live productions returning to cinemas, Emma Keith, Head of Broadcast for the National Theatre said: “We're delighted National Theatre Live’s plays are back on the big screen at Showcase Cinemas.

"We are pleased that the many theatre fans across the UK will have the opportunity to be entertained at their local cinemas. We believe theatre and the arts are a force for good in turbulent times, and while many theatres remain closed to live performances onstage, the big screen experience provides the next best thing to being there.”

The extensive Event Cinema line up will also include Riverdance, Princess Mononoke and family favourite Zog & Highway Rat, so there’s something for all ages.

To welcome back cinema-goers, Showcase Cinemas will be screening all films, including Event Cinema, for just £5 a ticket. Guests are advised to book tickets online in advance or use the self-service ticket machines in the cinema lobby.

All Showcase sites opening have a thorough cleaning regime in place, plus multiple hand sanitising stations for guests to use.

For the full list of screenings, to book tickets and watch the ‘Be Showcase Safe’ video, visit: www.showcasecinemas.co.uk