Shropshire Independent Cinema (SIC) has launched a cultural initiative to support the farming community.
The Rural Remix – taking place from the 11th to the 13th of July – is a weekend of rural-themed films and events, and farmers and farm workers are being invited to ‘buy one ticket, bring a farmer’s friend for free’.
The scheme will continue for a year across three Shropshire cinemas; Wem Cinema at Wem Town Hall, Ludlow Picture House at The Assembly Rooms and The Old Market Hall in Shrewsbury.
The Soil Association, Shropshire Young Farmers and the Green Festival are partnering with the scheme, with Young Farmers accessing the code through their app. Other farmers and farm workers can mail for a code via the cinemas.
“Independent cinemas and small-scale farmers share a determination to survive and do things our own way,” said Jess Laurie of Ludlow Picture House.
Alan John Gatehouse, a South Shropshire farmer who’s been driving students in his tractor and trailer to buy Rural Remix tickets, said, “It’s great to have cinema events specially created for farmers. We’ve so little spare time. It makes a big difference to go out together to something that we know we’ll enjoy.”
According to studies from Exeter University and RABI, 29% of farmers hardly ever or never leave the farm for leisure. The scheme hopes to change that.
Rose Horner, curator of Wem Cinema and a farmer’s daughter, said: “I know how farming kids can feel excluded from the arts. At the Rural Remix, we’re showing films for those who love the land, like Six Inches of Soil and Holy Cow, thrilling escapism with 28 Years Later, and the Oscar-winning animation Flow.”
On the 24th of June at Shrewsbury Cattle Market, a photocall with interview opportunities will be held to get more farming organisations involved. It will feature a cheese tasting from local producers Appleby.
The scheme is supported by the British Film Institute and Film Hub Midlands.