Officials with the Giles Youth-Adult Partnership (GYAP) have announced plans to host screenings of two classic films on Saturday, October 31 at the Narrows Community Center. This opportunity is being offered to community members at no cost.

The first screening will be a matinee showing of the famous 1954 monster movie, “The Creature from the Black Lagoon.” Doors will open at 12:00 Noon and the movie will get underway at 1:00 PM. This screening is open to any interested member of the community.

That same evening, GYAP will show the beloved 1993 film, “Hocus Pocus.” This screening is being offered to Giles County students in Grades 6 – 12 only. Doors will open at 6:00 PM, with the movie scheduled to start at 7:00 PM. Students who attend are encouraged to wear appropriate costumes for the evening. GYAP is also planning some additional activities for students to enjoy prior to the film.

“This idea actually came about after we had some open conversations with students at both high schools during the last school year,” notes Caryl Allen, Chair of GYAP. “We had scheduled time with the students to find out what we could do to better support them – and one of the things we kept hearing was that they wanted more fun things to do – including a movie night.”

“Giles County currently does not have a commercial movie theatre,” adds Mike Wade, GYAP secretary and a native of the county. “So, anyone from this community who wants to see a film in a theatre has to travel 30 minutes or more – to places like Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and Bluefield.”

“Just the cost of transportation itself can prohibit folks from enjoying this kind of activity,” adds Wade. “So, we wanted to do something that would help offset that – and to also make it a little unique.”

“Plus, this gives our community members – of all ages – an opportunity to come together and enjoy some social interaction in a fun and relaxed environment,” he continues.

Along with free admission, there will be a variety of door prizes and attendees will also be treated to free popcorn and bottled water. GYAP also plans to print souvenir tickets for both films.

GYAP is utilizing existing grant funds made available through New River Valley Community Services to cover associated costs for this activity. The auditorium space at the Narrows Community Center is being made available by the Town of Narrows and the town’s Recreation Department. GYAP is also partnering with the Giles County Sheriff’s Department to provide security for the evening film.

“We want our young people to have a great time, but everyone’s safety is our utmost priority,” explains Allen. “We’re also very proud to have the support of so many different entities in making this a reality…If things go well, we hope to do a holiday film screening later in the year.” Additional details will be shared closer to Halloween. In the meantime, questions or concerns can be directed to Mike Wade at mwade@nrvcs.org.