In February 2008, Isle of Man Film and investment partners CinemaNX welcomed leading independent film director Rick Linklater and his cast to the Island to film the movie “Me & Orson Welles” at the Gaiety Theatre.
As part of the film’s international publicity roll-out the Cast, Director and Producers will return to The Gaiety Theatre for the Isle of Man premiere of the film which will be held in the theatre on Saturday 21st November. The Isle of Man premiere will sit between the London and New York Premieres and will be unique in being able to screen in same Theatre as the film was shot.
DTI Minister David Cretney said, “We are absolutely delighted that Rick Linklater, the producers and members of the cast of this tremendous film have managed to slot in a return visit to the Island for our premiere, particularly as the trip fits in between the London premiere on the 18th November and the New York premiere on November 23rd. We did need the co-operation of a number of Gaiety based productions during filming, including the Manx Ballet, the Manx Operatic and the Young Farmers shows, and the fact that the actors, producers and director are keen to return to say thank you speaks very highly of the calibre of the people involved in making the film. Once again, I add my thanks to everyone who worked with us at that time.”
It is hoped that Rick (School of Rock, Before Sunset) will be accompanied by cast members Zac Efron (High School Musical 1,2 and 3 and 17 Again) Claire Danes (Romeo & Juliet, Stardust) and British newcomer Christian McKay who plays the title role of Orson Welles.
Steve Christian, Chairman of CinemaNX commented; ‘The IOM Premiere brings the film full circle as far as The Gaiety is concerned. However, for NX this is far from the end with this film. For the first time ever an Isle of Man company is releasing a major feature film in both the UK and USA. We have assembled a first rate team that includes Warner Bros and Vue Cinemas and which creates a new model in film distribution that the industry is sitting up and noticing’.
Me and Orson Welles tells the story of how teenage student Richard Samuels (Zac Efron) lucks his way into a minor role in the legendary 1937 Mercury Theatre production of Julius Caesar, directed by a youthful Orson Welles (Christian McKay).
Over the course of a magical week, Richard makes his Broadway debut, finds romance with an ambitious older woman, and experiences the dark side of genius after daring to cross the imperious, brilliant Welles.
Tickets for the event will go on sale at 10am on Saturday 7th November at the Sea Terminal Welcome Centre or via the ticket hotline tel: 600555. Tickets will be priced at £25 or £75 to include a champagne reception in the Villa Marina Arcade to precede the premiere.
M&OW To Premiere@The Gaiety Theatre
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Originally Posted by Wisewisker
