FILM fans are in for a treat this summer as MBNA Chestival introduces a new programme in 2011 – a large outdoor cinema within Chester’s very own Amphitheatre, showing films for all ages and tastes.

A large LED cinema screen with full stereo sound will be erected in Chester’s Amphitheatre from June 6-24 as part of the Live in the Amphtitheatre series.

Tracy Lynn, director of Chester Festivals, said: “This is a new adventure for MBNA Chestival and we have had great reaction already. Imagine watching Gladiator in the setting of a real Roman Amphitheatre.”

The films take on a theme of ‘Classics’ from classic musicals such as The Sound of Music and Rocky Horror Picture Show to classics of the future, such as Toy Story 3 and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Films have been chosen by consulting with MBNA Chestival facebook fans (find Chester Festivals) asking them what they would like to see in the summer and are films that you can enjoy in fancy dress or interact with by singing along or joining in.

John Greaves, communications executive for MBNA, said: “Watching classic films on a cinema screen within Chester’s Amphitheatre will provide a unique experience for visitors and it’s a great addition to this year’s programme.

“Working in partnership with Chester Performs we have also developed an opportunity for local filmmakers to produce a special programme of short films, which will be screened before each feature film screening.”

Tickets are £5 per adult and £1.50 for children which makes it cheaper than going to an indoor cinema.

To book tickets visit www.chesterfestivals.co.uk or call 0845 241 7868.

The full listing of screenings is:

Monday, June 6: Toy Story 3 (U) - 4.30 pm; Pirates of the Caribbean (12A) 7pm.

Tuesday, June 7: Finding Nemo (U) - 4.30pm; Grease (PG) - 7pm

Wednesday, June 8: ET (U) - 6pm.

Thursday, June 9: Ice Age (U) - 4.30pm.

Friday, June 10: Labyrinth (U) - 3.30pm; Dirty Dancing (12A) - 5.45pm; Top Gun (15) - 8pm.

Monday, June 13: Some Like it Hot (PG) - 5.30pm; Moulin Rouge (12) – 7.30pm.

Tuesday, June 14: Mamma Mia (PG) – 5.30pm; Rocky Horror Picture Show (15) - 8.30pm.

Monday, June 20: Monsters Inc (U)- 4.30pm.

Wednesday, June 22: Madagascar (PG) - 4.30pm; Ferris Buller’s Day Off (PG) – 6.30pm

Thursday, June 23: The Sound of Music (U) - 5pm.

Friday, June 24: Gladiator (15) - 7pm.