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The King and I...at the cinema: Charles gets 'VIP' movie ticket for beloved seaside cinema

Charles visited the town of Newcastle in Ulster, and toured the local attraction that has been staging screenings since 2009.

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King Charles III meets Vera Edelstein at the box office during a visit to the Newcastle Community Cinema, on day two of the royal visit to Northern Ireland.
King Charles III meets Vera Edelstein at the box office during a visit to the Newcastle Community Cinema, on day two of the royal visit to Northern Ireland. Picture: Alamy

By StephenRigley

The King was given a “VIP” movie ticket when he joined passionate film fans running a community cinema in a Northern Ireland seaside resort.

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Charles visited the town of Newcastle during his second day in Ulster, and toured the local attraction that has been staging screenings since 2009.

The cinema has become a focal point for the local community who live in the picturesque location that has Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest peak, as a dramatic backdrop.

When the King first arrived, he was given a cinema ticket from the box office to mark his visit printed with “VIP Guest”.

King Charles III meets foodbank volunteers
King Charles III meets foodbank volunteers. Picture: Alamy

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Organisers allow the cinema to be used for a range of events alongside movie screenings: from stand-up comedy, to performances by community groups and martial arts activities.

They even hold KnitFlix nights where the audience is encouraged to knit, crochet or get crafting while watching a movie.