ASHLAND, Va. -- If you always wanted to see the film "Purple Rain" on the big screen, the Ashland Theater will give the dearly beloved a chance to gather together to watch it, at 7 p.m., on Saturday, April 23.
"A group of volunteers scrambled to get a copy of the movie and get permission to show it," said theater contact Kay Landry; adding that "Purple Rain" is her favorite song and "yes" she will be there to watch the movie.
The movie stars Prince as The Kid, in a seemingly autobiographical tale of a young musician trying to contend with a rival singer in the thriving Minneapolis club scene.
The movie released in 1984, shortly after Prince's 1982 album,"1999" thrust him into the spotlight, where he remained.
[READ: PHOTOS: The legendary artist known as Prince, 1958 – 2016]
His androgynous look and mastery of the guitar drew comparisons to both Little Richard and Jimi Hendrix, and Hollywood was quick to cast him in the movie. He won an Oscar for "Purple Rain" in the category Best Music: Original Song Score.
[READ: TIMELINE: Prince’s career as a legendary artist began with a 1977 album]
Relive the 80s all over again by catching the film, rated 6.3 stars out of 10 on IMDB, on Saturday.
The Ashland Theater, a landmark theater in the process of being restored, can seat 330 people. They hold fundraisers to raise cash to refurbish the building. They hope to close the doors in October and work on the building over the winter, for a spring 2017 opening.
[READ: One of Prince’s final tweets was about Richmond]
Tickets are free and can be picked up the day of the screening, at 6 p.m. on Saturday. But Landry suggested emailing them in advance to reserve a ticket. You can also reserve through the website byclicking here and then entering your name, phone and email.
There will be concessions available.
The Ashland Theater is located at 205 England Street in Ashland.
