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New Generation Associating More to Private Cinema Viewing

Cinema has remained a popular form of entertainment through decades. They are a perfect medium to release stress and engage socially with other people. Recently, there has been an increasing trend of private cinema viewing. Families, groups of friends, or business partners often hire cinemas for private viewings where they can enjoy without any interruptions, hassles, or noise created by large crowds.

There are many reasons behind the popularity of private viewing amongst the new generation. The biggest reason is privacy; the new generation is more conscious about their privacy than youngsters have been ever before. They prefer not being disturbed while enjoying their favourite movies, and want to experience the cinema in the company of their close friends only.

Private viewing is also a good option for couples who want to enjoy a romantic experience on a special occasion. Similarly, businessmen/women can also benefit from the option. They can invite their clients, customers, or colleagues for a memorable experience.

Another advantage of private viewings is the choice; you get to watch what you want. People can choose the movie they want to, ranging from vintage to new blockbusters. Many cinemas in the UK provide the customers with a large variety of options to choose from in all categories.

Affordability is also one of the reasons for the increase in private cinema viewings. They provide the new generation with affordable entertainment and yet, a customised experience. Cinemas can be hired for any kind of social gatherings such as school/college parties, birthday parties, and special occasion celebrations or just for a good experience.

Many cinemas in the UK offer special party arrangements such as decorations, food, and cakes, to make the day more enjoyable. In this way, not only can people watch the movie of their choice, they can also socialise with friends and family at the same time.

In the major cities of UK, there is always a shortage of good party venues. It can be difficult to find venues on short notices so, in this regard, cinema rentals are a good alternative. Cinema rentals also cost cheaper than booking venues. A rising trend in the UK is to book a cinema hall for private viewing and the adjacent ballrooms for parties. In this way, people can watch a movie in the cinema and later enjoy a dinner or a dance.

In today's fast-paced life, it is hard to find the time or the place to arrange private getaways that are special and affordable at the same time. Most places are either crowded or are too expensive to opt for. Thus, private cinema viewing seems like a perfect option for the new generation to have a personalised experience within their budget. They can choose exactly what they want to view and whom they want to invite. It is also great for couples searching for a private and romantic getaway. Moreover, private cinema viewings offer an exciting experience for all kinds of parties and social gatherings.

Finding Alfred Hitchcock Celebrity Collectibles

Alfred Hitchcock is one of history's most beloved directors. He brought a number of films to life, providing the world with some of the most iconic images which have ever been made through cinema. His films have become a part of pop culture, with moments and events in the films being a part of common public knowledge. He has inspired scores of filmmakers, giving many people the drive to go out there and make terrific films which have also become a great feature of cinema. Considered to be one of the greatest directors of all time, it is only natural that a large number of people would want to start collections based around this classic director.

Many different books have been published all about this director, from biographies to tomes detailing his films. Some of the films have been so iconic that there are books solely dedicated to the making of those individual films, such as Psycho, North by Northwest, or Vertigo. Other books can be found such as collections of all the poster artwork from his long and varied career. All of these forms of books can be considered to be celebrity collectible memorabilia since they are dedicated to things that Hitchcock heavily had a hand in.

Alfred Hitchcock's films have all been released many times on both video and DVD, giving the world the chance to enjoy his movies. Many of these movies have been released as special collector's editions, however. Each of these films will often come in special packaging with special bonus materials located inside. These will often delight collectors, giving them a chance to see more about their favorite filmmaker and all of his techniques. Hopefully, one could become a better filmmaker by studying the Master of Suspense. These DVDs can all lend a hand to that. Some editions have even been produced which release a great number of his most famous films all in one special, collectible box set.

Hitchcock also inspired a number of games, some during the height of his popularity in the classic American home from his television show. Hitchcock produced his own mystery board game which has players racing around a deserted old home, trying to solve a murder mystery that happened there. Clue has produced its own homage to Hitchcock, with a special edition Hitchcock themed game where all of the suspects, rooms, and weapons are taken directly from his films. A few computer games have even been produced which take elements from his best movies and have the players solve the mystery using those elements.

Considering how highly esteemed Alfred Hitchcock is, there is no surprise that people believe in his collectibles as much as they do. There is no telling about how much influence Hitchcock has played in the world of cinema, nor how much he will continue to play in the future. With someone who has gives as much as he has to the world of movie making, it is easy to believe that people will be gathering celebrity collectibles and memorabilia about this great director for many years to come.

Which Cinemas Offer Private Cinema Viewings?

Private cinema viewings are quite trendy these days, as a large number of businesses and people like to organise their corporate events and other parties in cinemas for private viewing of their favourite movie or any other video they want to watch in a joyful and exciting environment. Considering this increasing popularity of the trend, many cinemas like CineWorld, ODEON, Shortwave, and Everyman cinema are offering private cinema viewings.

CineWorld is quite well known for its stylish furniture and quality food. At CineWorld, you can really make your private movies screening a joyful and memorable experience. Private movie viewing in this cinema offers a true grace to your corporate events and other parties.

When it comes to Shortwave Cinema, you will definitely find this cinema as a perfect venue for your corporate events and other parties. They offer you such a welcoming and relaxing environment that you can't easily forget and keep remembering it for years. They really enrich your experience of private cinema screening and provide you all what you want to have in such sort of recreation.

Everyman Cinema is a true representative of its names and has something for everyone. At Everyman cinema, you can watch your favourite movie or any other video that you want to watch on flat screen panels. There are seductive atmospheric lights, stylish, and elegant furniture as well as high quality cognac to fill your every inch with pleasure.

No matter whether you arrange your private movies screening in Everyman cinema or ODEON cinema, you will find all the comfort and luxury that can exist under the sun. Though various cinemas are offering private cinema viewings with somewhat similar way, ODEON seems to make a difference with its private cinema viewings offerings. According to a large number of cine goers and those who have been becoming the part private movie viewing parties, ODEON has all what can make your corporate events and other parties of private cinema viewings really exciting and memorable.

Therefore, you will find all that you want to have for your parties and corporate events in private movie viewings. You can book private cinema viewings of a recently released blockbuster, your favourite film, or anything like a documentary that you want to watch with your friends, business partners and other relations. The nicest thing about private movie viewing is that it gives you an opportunity to make your events memorable. When you offer such a recreation and entertainment to your near and dear ones, they often remember such parties for years and that's why private cinema viewings are considered a nice way to make your events really memorable with endless joy and excitement.

The cinemas, which are offering these private movies viewings, know well what people want in such sort of events and they often seem to provide their best possible service when organising private cinema viewings.

They offer the best foods, drinks, and atmosphere to make your gathering joyful and exciting. It's because of their great services that private cinema viewings are becoming more and more popular with every passing day, and now it's not something only limited for some bigwigs and celebrities. You can also throw away such a party to your acquaintances if you are willing to spend some amount for it.

Detroit Independent Film Festival announces deadline

By: Brittney Schering

The Detroit Independent Film Festival (DIFF) will accept film submissions from Michigan filmmakers until Dec. 15 for its second annual film festival. All submissions must have been produced in 2010. Award categories include best editing, cinematography, and acting.

The competition inside of the festival has a main purpose of strengthening the independent film industry within the state. All of Michigan’s filmmakers are encouraged to submit their films for consideration in the 2nd Annual Michigan Film Awards (MFA).

Michigan film critics will serve as judges, and cash prizes will be awarded to the winners. The MFA will identify and recognize an array of talented filmmakers and their movies from all across the state. Feature, short, documentary, animation, and experimental films are welcome.

The Festival is scheduled to happen on March 9-12 at the Detroit Film Theatre, The Burton Theatre, and Wayne State University in Detroit. Awards and afterglow parties will soon be announced.

The Detroit Independent Film Festival draws motion pictures and talent regionally, nationally, and internationally. Every producer and director hope to create an award-winning movie. With independent filmmaking growing in Michigan, the DIFF intends to make these hopes come alive.

Film entries can be submitted to The Burton Theatre, 3420 Cass Avenue, Detroit, MI, 48201. For more information, please head over to www.midiff.org.

Lemon Creek Winery’s Grand Opening is this Friday

By: Brittney Schering

This Friday, Dec. 10 is the official grand opening for Lemon Creek Winery’s brand new Grand Haven Tasting Room from 12 to 8 p.m. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at 1 p.m.

Holiday wine specials are available through Dec. 23, including Dry Riesling, Compass Rose, Shiraz, and Cherry Wine. Complimentary holiday gift-wrapping will be provided.

The winemaker himself, Jeff Lemon, would like to thank the residents of Grand Haven for welcoming Lemon Creek Winery into the community. The support that Lemon Creek has received from everyone during the past year of construction has been appreciated greatly.

Lemon Creek is a name that holds more than 150 years of grape and fruit growing experience. It is 100% family owned and operated. Located six miles from the lake, in the heart of wine country, this winery, vineyard, and fruit farm is a perfect family destination.

Lemon Creek is open year round and holds numerous annual events, such as Memorial Weekend’s two day Art and Wine Festival.

For more information, please check out www.lemoncreekwinery.com.

Hudsonville Ice Cream creates a new flavor

By: Brittney Schering

West Michigan’s favorite ice cream maker has created a new flavor of ice cream, one that pays homage to West Michigan winters. It is called Lake Affection, and this new Limited Edition flavor is part of an expanded line that the Holland company started earlier this year.

Lake Affection hit grocery store shelves throughout the state recently. The refreshing Lake Michigan blue, mint ice cream is swirled with snow vanilla ice cream, just in time for winter.

As a tribute to lakeshore location, Hudsonville Creamery & Ice Cream Co. has added Lake Affection to its long list of delectable flavors of ice cream. As Michigan’s largest manufacturer of branded ice cream, three new Limited Edition flavors have been made in 2010.

Lake Affection joins Blueberry Cobbler, which was introduced during the summer, as well as Country Apple Pie, a new flavor that arrived this fall. All of which are expansions of Hudsonville’s popular line of Limited Editions.

They joined the iconic trio of Orange Cream Swirl, Pumpkin, and Peppermint Stick, which make grand seasonal appearances every year. Sales were so successful this year that Hudsonville plans to expand its offerings again in 2011.

What are you waiting for? Head to your nearest grocery store to try the brand new delectable Lake Affection ice cream while it lasts; after all, it is a Limited Edition.

Please go to www.hudsonvilleicecream.com for more information.

Donna the Buffalo to play Dec. 9 at The Intersection

By: Brittney Schering

Rootsy folk-Zydeco rock band, Donna the Buffalo, is back in Michigan and will be playing at The Intersection on Thursday, Dec. 9.

Multi-instrumentalist and DtB’s bandleader, Tara Nevins, has a new album in the works at Levon Helm Studios. It is being produced by two-time Grammy award-winner, Larry Campbell. It is set to be released in late March or early April.

Donna the Buffalo’s eclectic and often socially conscious music has its base in traditional mountain music and elements of Cajun/zydeco, rock, folk, reggae, and country.

DtB represents one of the most respected bands in the world of touring roots acts. For 22 years, DtB has performed its infectious, feel-good music that moves listeners physically and spiritually.

For more information, please check out www.donnathebuffalo.com.

West Michigan Symphony presents, "The Signs and Sounds of the Season"

By: Brittney Schering

The Sights and Sounds of the Season is an annual holiday concert to feature guest conductor Bohuslav Rattay. The West Michigan Symphony will celebrate the joyful warmth of the holidays when it presents The Sights and Sounds of the Season on Friday, Dec. 10 and Saturday, Dec. 11. at 7:30 p.m.

Under the direction of guest conductor Bohuslav Rattay, the annual concert will feature sprightly pop favorites like, "Sleigh Ride" and "Jingle Bells," inspirational classics such as, "It came upon a Midnight Clear" and "O Tannenbaum," evocative selections from Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake," "The Nutcracker" and "Sleeping Beauty," and the traditional audience sing-along.

Also joining WMS will be the Muskegon Civic Theatre Youth Choir, Encore, led by vocal instructor Heather Marie Benson from Holland.

Additionally, five to seven year old ballerinas from Lakeshore Dance Muskegon will come down the aisles and perform during the perennial holiday favorite, "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies" from The Nutcracker. Lakeshore Dance is under the direction of Julie Powell.

Renowned by international audiences and critics alike for his fresh and inspired musical interpretations, Czech conductor Rattay has earned a reputation as one of the finest talents of his generation and is an enthusiastic ambassador for classical music. He is the artistic director for the Muncie Symphony Orchestra, recently began his first season with the Lake Charles Symphony Orchestra and is on the music faculty at Ball State University.

The West Michigan Symphony Low Brass Ensemble will provide pre-concert entertainment from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. in the lobby of the Frauenthal Center for Performing Arts.

All WMS concerts take place in the historic Frauenthal in downtown Muskegon. Individual WMS regular season single tickets are $10, $25, and $35 and may be purchased online at www.westmichigansymphony.org, in person at the West Michigan ticket office, Suite 409 (4th Floor) in the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts located at 425 W. Western Ave. in Muskegon, or by calling (231) 726-3231.

George McFly returns to UICA

By: Brittney Schering

Renegae auteur Crispin Hellion Glover will return to UICA to present his notorious features, It Is Fine! Everything is Fine. and What Is It? on Tuesday, Dec. 7 and Wednesday, Dec. 8, both at 8 p.m.

Both programs will also feature a different version of Glover’s Big Slide Show, an hour-long dramatic narration, plus a Q & A, and book signing. According to The New York Times, Crispin Glover has maintained a truly distinctive, oddball persona for more than 20 years, and he is a force to be reckoned with.

Tickets for each event are $15 for UICA members and $20 for general admission. Tickets to see both shows are $25 for UICA members and $35 for general admission. All day-of-show tickets are $25 each. To purchase yours in advance, please contact film@uica.org.

For more information, please head over to http://CrispinGlover.com.

Free Carousel Rides in honor of Peter C. Cook at the Public Museum

By: Brittney Schering

In celebration of Peter Cook's legacy to Grand Rapids, the Public Museum is providing one free carousel ride to all visitors on Tuesday, Dec. 7. Beginning in 2011, the Museum will also offer free rides every year on Peter's birthday, May 9.

Peter and Pat Cook assisted the Museum in leading a community campaign to acquire the antique carousel in 1981 and to build the glass and stone pavilion, which houses the carousel and bears their name.

The fully-restored 1928 Spillman Engineering Co. Carousel with its 50 hand-carved horses and menagerie animals continues to delight visitors at the GRPM and will forever be remembered as an amazing gift.

The Museum will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 7. Each guest that day will receive a free ride pass at the front desk. For more information, go to www.grmuseum.org or call (616) 456-3977.

'Tis the season of The Nutcracker

By: Brittney Schering

Grand Rapids Ballet Company presents The Nutcracker with live music by the Grand Rapids Symphony at DeVos Performance Hall starting tonight, Friday, Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m.

There is no greater way to get into the spirit of the season than to see The Nutcracker. Clara battles with mice to save her gallant Nutcracker while snowflakes dance in her head, and she journeys to a land where dreams come true.

The Grand Rapids Ballet and Grand Rapids Symphony unite for ten dazzling performances of this most beloved holiday tradition.

Shows are Dec. 3 - 5 and 10 - 12; times vary. Tickets can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com or at the ballet or DeVos Hall Box Office. Ticket prices range from $20 to $53.

Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks come to town

By: Brittney Schering

Known for being a group of eternal hipsters and purveyors of the best rock music of the generation, Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks have hijacked the holidays and created a Christmas album to enjoy all year long.

Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks will be at Wood Fire on Dec. 7 and Wealthy Theatre on Dec. 8 in support of the brand new holiday album, Crazy for Christmas, which just hit streets on Oct. 12.

Fans will be treated to a holiday party like only Dan Hicks can throw as the Hot Licks join him for Holidaze in Hicksville, where he will debut holiday originals and covers from the Crazy for Christmas album.

Tickets are $30 for the show and $30 for dinner on Tuesday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. in Dowagiac. For more information regarding this event, please call (269) 782-0007 or go to www.woodfiredining.com.

On Wednesday, Dec. 8 at 8 p.m., tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door in Grand Rapids. For more information on this event, please call (616) 459-4788 or go to www.wealthytheatre.org.

Sixth annual Verve Pipe holiday show

By: Brittney Schering

The Verve Pipe returns to Grand Rapids on Dec. 18 for its sixth annual holiday concert at The Intersection. The first 200 ticket buyers will receive tickets for only $9.79 thanks to 97.9 WGRD.

The Verve Pipe charted hits on mainstream and alternative radio, including the number one single, "The Freshmen," which holds a spot as one of the most successful multi-format tracks of its decade.

The band's latest release, A Family Album, is an original collection of songs intended for the entire family with fun and inventive lyrics set to memorable melodies.

The Dec. 18 concert will feature material from The Verve Pipe's hit rock albums, unique holiday-themed numbers as well as material from the new A Family Album and perhaps a brand new tune or two.

Tickets are available at Ticketmaster or by calling (616) 451-8232.

Competition brings more than 800 gymnasts to Grand Rapids

By: Brittney Schering

“Gymnastics on the Grand” competition, hosted by Grand Rapids Gymnastics, will be held Friday, Dec. 3 through Monday, Dec. 6 at the DeVos Place Convention Center. The USAG sanctioned three day invitational will host more than 800 gymnasts, both males and females, from the Midwest region.

The youngest up-and-coming gymnasts will kick off the event Friday evening at 5:30 p.m. The highest-level athletes will compete to earn a spot in Event Finals on Sunday afternoon at 12:30 p.m.

The top scoring athletes from Saturday’s preliminary qualifying sessions will earn the opportunity to compete in Sunday’s Event Finals, which will be similar to the Olympics competition.

Gymnastics on the Grand welcomes clubs from Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. Thirty female teams and nine male teams will compete for top honors.

The competition will take place on Friday, 5 to 9 p.m., then Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. For a detailed schedule of sessions and more information, please check out www.GymasticsontheGrand.com.

“Warm Up with Opera Grand Rapids” until Dec. 17

By: Brittney Schering

Opera Grand Rapids is collecting warm winter coats and business clothing at the Betty Van Andel Opera Center from now until Dec. 17. For each item that is dropped off, members of the community will receive a coupon for the Company’s February production of Puccini’s Manon Lescaut.

The clothing drive, “Warm Up with Opera Grand Rapids,” is a community wide coat and clothing drive to benefit the clothing pantries of the ICCF Family Homeless Shelter and the Women’s Resource Center.

To encourage donations, Opera Grand Rapids will hand out coupons for up to 50 percent off tickets to its February production at DeVos Hall. The discount coupons will range from 10 to 50 percent off, and are valid until January 11. Anyone who donates clean clothing that is in good condition will receive a coupon. The more items donated, the deeper the discount will be for the show.

The clothing collection drive will run until Dec. 17 at the Betty Van Andel Opera Center, located at 1320 East Fulton. Donations will be accepted from 8 a.m. to 6p.m. on Mondays and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday.

Volunteers are invited to visit the Opera Center between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 20 to help sort and deliver the donations. For more information, please visit www.operagr.com.