Who would have ever imagined that the small rural town of Mathews, Virginia, would have its very own film society, where you can slip in on a Saturday and feast your eyes and ears on the MET’s performance of Wagner’s “Ring” and be transported to higher spheres?
Kat Sharpe and Bronwyn Hughes, both Mathews residents, started the Film Society on January 1st, 2010, in the just renovated Old Department Store, the Halcyon Building on the 3rd floor which was not in use at the time. They just wanted to be able to see interesting films and produce quality cultural events and thought other Mathews residents would enjoy that too.
Two years later the Film Society has 300 members and organizes special showings every week on varying nights. The topics range from recent documentaries, like the wonderful story of the “Endurance” on its Antarctic expedition, to European cult films, old time movies such as Hitchcock and Charlie Chaplin. They also organize special events to listen to wonderful blues singers, or to a great dance band.
The performances are open to everyone and they cater to all ages. The atmosphere is very low key, with usually between 20 to 40 or sometimes more, people attending.
Often the performances are introduced by one of the members and a lively discussion ensues afterwards. You can buy soft drinks, popcorn, and sometimes great deserts at the bar in the back of the hall.
Just drop in on 40 Court Street in Mathews, on the corner of Courthouse and Church Street, you don’t have to book ahead, just grab a seat, all free of charge. You can find their program on line at www.mathewsfilmsociety.org.
