Growing up with drive-ins, many South Africans are familiar to the concept of open-air cinemas. The Galileo, however, will provide Durban with an entirely new film experience. Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush flora, the cinema is situated at Makaranga Botanical Garden in Kloof. Movie-goers of all ages will be able to enjoy a range of old blockbuster films each week, with tantalising local delicacies available to purchase.
Founded by Huenu Solsona and Thomas Brauer, the concept for The Galileo was born from a love of film, along with the need for a different type of experience for film fans. The duo kicked off the concept in Cape Town in November 2012 and ran movies for the summer season at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens until April 2013. Co-founder Thomas Brauer said: "We were both surprised by the huge popularity of the movies. Some shows sold out in just a few days! It was pretty much a box-smashing hit from the first show to the last."
The duo's success in Cape Town prompted them to expand to other areas of South Africa and Durban, with its mild, drier winters, was next on the list.
Movies will start at 6.30pm and entry to the movie area will open at 4pm, giving movie-goers ample time to get a bite to eat.
Shows will run every Wednesday for the months of August and September, and movies include such classics as Pretty Woman, Top Gun and Love Actually. Tickets are available online through The Galileo's website or directly through Webtickets and cost R70.
For more information and ticket sales, go to www.thegalileo.co.za or call +27 (0)71 471 8728.
