The MCG added further weight to its claim as Australia’s most versatile stadium when it hosted two open-air cinema screenings on the turf in February.
Cinema at the ‘G, presented by Bank of Melbourne, saw more than 3500 people sit on the hallowed turf over two nights on February 12 and 13 to watch Million Dollar Arm and The Martian respectively. The latter movie was a sellout affair on a perfect Saturday evening.The giant MCG scoreboard screen at the Punt Road end, measuring more than 330 square metres, shone brightly in the night sky as moviegoers enjoyed dinner and drinks on picnic rugs, or huddled under blankets on cushions, pillows or beanbags. It was quite a sight.
It was not only a great night of entertainment, but also a great night of fundraising. Proceeds from the event went to the Bank of Melbourne Neighbourhood Fund, which supports local charities and programs that deliver sustainable benefits to Victorian communities.
The audience was a mix of couples young and old, families and groups of friends and it was clear everyone got a buzz out of spending time on Australia’s most famous patch of grass.
“It was absolutely fantastic!” Leanne Davey said afterwards. “But you will need to increase the number of nights if you do it again though - everyone is onto our little secret now.
“We had a brilliant night! It was perfection...the setup, the staff, the amenities, the friendly crowd, everything. It was great to see the ‘G available to the general public for more than just footy and cricket.”
There’s no doubt the first cinematic experience at the MCG is more than a century was a spectacular success. And there is every likelihood of an encore performance in the future.