Hundreds attend family friendly free outdoor cinema event

THE latest free outdoor cinema screening at St Cuthbert’s Park in Clondalkin was another event that went well and attracted hundreds of people.

Organisers estimate approximately over 400 people attended on Friday to watch animated musical comedy Trolls World Tour (2020) on a big screen at the Bawnogue Park.

The family friendly event was organised by Friends of St Cuthbert’s Park, and they hope to host another outdoor movie during Culture Night in September, according to Lisa Kinsella-Colman, a member of Friends of St Cuthbert’s.

“It was a good turnout on Friday, we avoided the rain, had over 400 people and a fair few names were put in the hat for volunteers.

“We will have a meeting so it depends on who shows up, but we will hope to have another event during the summer. We will ask new volunteers what they would like to see,” said Lisa.

The group is made up of local residents and volunteers, and received some funding from South Dublin County Council to screen the movie.

However they need more pairs of hands to ensure future events are manageable.

This was a strictly no alcohol event but residents could bring their own food and a coffee dock and ice cream was available.

“Some of the local shops were doing great deals for popcorn and soft drinks, so it is the wider community that can also benefit from these nights,” said Lisa.

Volunteers involved with Friends of St Cuthbert’s set up the group six years ago as part of wider efforts to reclaim to park for the community.

Prior to this, St Cuthbert’s Park suffered from serious issues such as joyriding, drug dealing and dumping, but improvements have been substantial in recent years.

“Things are much better now,” acknowledged Lisa.

After the movie, there was an after show with an amazing fire display by Aido Tornaido.