NOT A LOT of people know this, but the screening of a Michael Caine film next Tuesday (Jan 23) will kickstart a season of cinema and live music at Petersfield Festival Hall.

The silver screen will return to the town centre as The Great Escaper (12A) will be shown at 2.30pm and 7.30pm in The New Savoy Cinema.

There’s a blockbuster double header on Tuesday, February 27, with matinee and evening showings of Mamma Mia 2 and Oppenheimer, respectively, with all tickets costing just £5.

The town council is keen to revive its New Savoy programme as movies were regularly screened at the hall before lockdown.

The hall boasts a widescreen and surround sound while the Rose Room bar has been given a slight makeover with a fully stocked bar and new mood lighting.

“We’re starting to use the facility to put on our own things like the live music, festivals and all the tribute bands,” said the council’s events and media officer, Kathryn Ellis.

“We’ve had a lot of people coming in asking about the cinema and demand is there.”

Fans of live music are also in for a treat with Amy A and Oasiz tribute acts performing on March 2 and May 4, respectively.

Tickets for all events can be bought at www.ticketsource.co.uk/thefestivalhall