Hydra open air cinema's first show in Abu Dhabi begins tonight

Over 1800 people a night witnessed the spectacle of Hydra Open Air Cinema as it was showcased in Dubai, where they enjoyed the latest movies in one of the world's most beautiful and iconic locations - on the beach at Mina A'salam, in the shadow of the Burj Al Arab.

"Dubai has been one of the most successful first-time screenings for the Open Air Cinema and we're expecting to continue this in Abu Dhabi with around 2000 people each night."

said Swiss Open Air CEO Farzin Samadian.

"With the cinema on show at the majestic Emirates Palace, its location rivals anything in the world and gives the experience an atmosphere of romance and excitement. Tonight's show will open with a large laser show which we're very much looking forward to sharing this with the residents of Abu Dhabi."

One of the highlights of the 12 night event which ends on December 12, is a charity dinner for the Donate a Brick fundraising initiative for Special Care Centre, being held on Friday 5 in conjunction with the screening of Bolt, under the patronage of H. H. Sheikha Shamma Bin Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The Special Care Centre (SCC) is an Abu Dhabi-based, self-funded institution that relies on donations and volunteers.

For the last 18 years, the SCC has successfully run an educational facility for students with special needs in Abu Dhabi.

Donate a Brick (DAB) aims to raise money for Special Care Centre.

The concept is to establish a school that has been built by the community for the community.

This endeavor brings together individuals, schools, the corporate and government sectors, and all stakeholders.

Hydra Open Air Cinema will celebrate National Day with the screening of Captain Hima, two weeks before its UAE cinematic release.

Also, Niko - The Way to the Stars and Genghis Khan are being showcased two weeks ahead of their UAE release dates.

"Most of the programs are UAE premiers and there is even one world premier, The Punisher 2, which is showing here, two weeks before its world release." Samadian said.

Hydra Open Air Cinema is sponsored by Hydra Properties and supported by Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH) and Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF)

Time Out Dubai and Abu Dhabi and Ahlan magazines are the media partners for the event, The National is the official newspaper while Virgin Megastore and Channel 4 are the contributing sponsor & Charisma events is the PR and advertising partner.