The Purbeck Film Festival will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2026, launching the milestone year with a special celebratory event at Encombe House.
Founded to bring a rich mix of cinema to Purbeck, the festival now screens films in distinctive venues across the region each October, while its popular Cinema Under the Stars series brings outdoor screenings to iconic locations including Corfe Castle and the Blue Pool.
Reflecting on the milestone, festival patron Sir Mark Rylance described the event as “quite remarkable”, saying that at a time when many cinemas and festivals struggle to survive rapid technological change, small festivals like Purbeck are a “godsend for filmmakers” that help nurture the human heart of cinema.
The anniversary year will launch with a special Afternoon Tea at Encombe House on Saturday 16 May, where guests will enjoy a garden stroll and entertainment from the Fingask Follies.
Andrea Etherington, Chair of the Purbeck Film Festival, said: “Reaching 30 years is a wonderful moment for the festival and for everyone who has supported us along the way.
“We’re thrilled to begin our anniversary celebrations at Encombe House, one of Purbeck’s most beautiful settings.
“Our sincere thanks go to James and Arabella Gaggero for so generously opening their home to help us mark this special occasion.
“Special thanks are also extended to the Dick Odgers Memorial Trust whose generosity has made this event possible.”
More information and tickets are available via the Purbeck Film Festival website: www.purbeckfilm.com.
Photo Credit Richard Brown
