A cinematic centenary is to be celebrated in Chepstow Castle this weekend (Saturday 13th on Sunday 14th July) with the screenings of the 1913 Hollywood epic film Ivanhoe, filmed on location in the castle.

Ivanhoe was one of the first Hollywood films made abroad. Piano accompaniment to the unique screenings of this 48 minute long film will be created live by international singer and pianist Karl Daymond and will include music composed in 1913.Many of the hundreds of extras in the film were Chepstow people who were used to dressing up having staged spectacular community theatrical events in the Castle for many years.The film's star, King Baggot, could have been the inspiration for the recent Oscar-winning film The Artist; a talented silent film star who failed to make it in the 'talkies' and turned to alcohol.The first part of the celebration is a picnic concert by the hundred-strong singing club led by Karl Daymond, the audience are invited to bring rugs or folding chairs and elaborate picnics.Ivanhoe will be shown as darkness falls. The performances will be held under the giant Castle canopy (so there is no problem if it rains).Tickets for both evenings are £5 and are available from Chepstow Museum. Call 01291 625981.Pictures courtesy of Chepstow Museum.