18/08/22: The countdown is on!

Thetford is set to welcome visitors from across East Anglia as it hosts not only two days of free outside cinema screenings by the river, but a further two days of sell-out theatre performances at Thetford Priory.

Breckland Council has funded the Stage and Screen Summer 2022 programme, in partnership with Thetford Town Council, to bring together local communities, attract visitors to the town and support local businesses.

The series of events will kick off on Saturday, 27 August, by the river at Thetford Riverside, with a free outside cinema event that will show the award-winning children's film Encanto (1pm), followed by the fabulous Grease at 3:30pm and finally, The Greatest Showman at 6pm. On Sunday, 28 August, Encanto returns at 1pm, followed by the superb Lion King (2019 version) at 3:30pm and Abba's Mamma Mia! at 6pm.

Over both days, a range of street food vendors will be on hand for people to buy meals, including from Craig's da Flava, Roasty's, Bucket Fries, Pudding Shack, Dough and Co, Burger Amor and popcorn buckets from the Light Cinema. Everyone attending is invited to dress up, sing along, and enjoy the great food on offer.

Following the cinema events, Thetford Priory will be providing the magnificent backdrop for two sell-out theatre productions on 31 August and 1 September. Chapterhouse Theatre company will be performing Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet and panto family-favourite Cinderella. Over 600 people will be able to enjoy the shows over the two days, with tickets now sold out.

Cllr Paul Claussen, Executive Member for Economic Development and Growth at Breckland Council, commented: "I am delighted to see our two outside theatre performances are sold out in advance, whilst our free outside cinema events look all set to welcome record crowds. This unique programme of events is part of our Thriving Places commitment, supporting local businesses and ensuring our towns are vibrant places to live in and visit."