The Friends of Rye Town Park (FRTP) is presenting the family classic, “Big” starring Tom Hanks, on Thursday, July 11th, beginning at approximately 8:40 pm. The event will be held outdoors, on the “great lawn” at the northeast end of Rye Town Park.
Big is a 1988 fantasy comedy film directed by Penny Marshall. It tells the story of Josh Baskin, a young boy (Hanks) who makes a wish "to be big" and is then aged to adulthood overnight. The film also stars Elizabeth Perkins, John Heard, and Robert Loggia (dancing on the keyboard scene). It was written by Gary Ross and Anne Spielberg.
Two parts of the movie were filmed in Rye: an amusement park sequence, and the “return to Zoltar” scene near the end. Big was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Tom Hanks) and Best Writing, Original Screenplay.
Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Carpet Trends of Rye, admission to the movie is free. There will be a reduced parking rate of $5, $4 for season permit holders, after 4:00 pm. People living close to the park are encouraged to walk.
So, as FRTP board member Ann Moller said in announcing the event, “We hope everyone will bring their beach chairs and a picnic dinner and enjoy this event with family and friends.” Ms Moller added that magician, actor and educator Jim Vagias will be on hand to entertain “kids of all ages” before the movie starts.
But people should be careful about making any wishes, as you never know…
In the event of bad weather, the rain date will be the following Thursday, July 18th. For further information, phone 914 967-5419. Or, people can call the park at 967-0965.
