This is a sponsored article on behalf of Wembley Park.
Calling all cinephiles! Now that summer is here, there's no need to retreat into the shadows of your local multiplex in order to get your film fix. That's right: it's outdoor screenings season.
What's better than lounging about in the sun watching a silver screen classic? Well, how about lounging about in the sun watching a silver screen classic for free. At Wembley Park this June and July, you can do exactly that — thanks to the return of Summer on Screen.
North west London's most creative new neighbourhood has brought its giant outdoor screen back for the second year running. With deckchairs, bean bags and blankets (hey, this isn't quite the Costa Del Sol), Arena Square transforms into the perfect cosy spot to retreat to after a day of shopping.
So, what's on the agenda this year? Everything from Hollywood blockbusters to a South Asian film festival, and even live broadcasts from the Royal Opera House. Read on to discover some of the highlights.
Sister Act Sing-along
An oldie but a goodie. Don't miss Whoopi Goldberg's star turn as a nightclub singer sent to a convent under a Witness Protection Programme in 90s cult favourite Sister Act on 20 June. But this is no ordinary screening: it's actually a sing-a-long extravaganza, complete with an epic 10-piece gospel choir from Gospeloke. They'll treat you to a stirring pre-show performance, before belting out the bangers alongside Saint Katherine's parish choir during the film (you'll even get a hymn sheet, so you can join in too!) Oh, and did we mention that the event also includes a Motown DJ set?
ROH, Carmen
On 2 July, you've got the rare chance to see the Royal Opera House perform live without paying a penny. The company's take on Bizet's magnum opus, Carmen, is broadcast live to Wembley Park following an on-site performance from Cirque Ballet.
Movies, Memories, Magic
How have classic south Asian films shaped British Asian identity? Find out on 3 July, when Wembley Park screens Dr. Ashvin Immanuel Devasundaram's docu-drama Movies, Memories, Magic. Before the film, you'll have to chance to grill the director himself, alongside the cast, in a special Q&A.
A Star is Born
They say the third time's a charm, and that's most definitely the case with the latest iteration of A Star is Born. Bradley Cooper's acclaimed directorial debut dramatises the meteoric rise of a waitress-turned-singer-songwriter (played by Lady Gaga), while the life — and career — of the fading country star that discovered her crumbles. See it on 5 July, after giving your own vocal chords some exercise, with pre-show Drag Queen Karaoke.
Dirty Dancing
Dig out those dancing shoes, because on 16 July you learn how to throw some shapes a la Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze in Emilio Ardelino's 80s classic. After Swing Patrol show you some moves, there's plenty of time to relax your limbs as you sink into a deckchair for Dirty Dancing.
Summer on Screen is at Wembley Park until 23 July. For the full programme, and to book your free place, click here.
