Classic Films Return to the Big Screen at MCC’s Academic Arts Center

Middlesex Community College prides itself on bringing art, culture and diversity to Greater Lowell. Since opening in 2018, the MCC Richard and Nancy Donahue Family Academic Arts Center has enhanced the college’s performing arts offerings, including hosting the college’s theatre performances, concert series, art shows and other events.

Starting in the Fall 2022 semester, Middlesex will offer MCC at the Movies, a series of film screenings open to the community. Classic films include “Singing in the Rain” on October 6, “Casablanca” on January 23, and “Top Hat” on April 14.

“We are thrilled to offer some of the finest classic films to the public on the big screen,” said Peter Waldron, MCC’s Academic Arts Center Manager. “As people start to venture out to more in-person events, Middlesex is excited to be able to offer these films for just $5 a ticket. This inexpensive arts experience is just the start of more events planned for MCC’s Academic Arts Center in Lowell!”

The college will also host the first annual Lowell Asian American Film Festival (LAAFF) on Friday October 21 and Saturday, October 22. Over two days, Middlesex will screen Asian American-directed films from across the country. Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear from various directors, actors and artists involved in the films during Q&As. Tickets are $5 per event or $20 for the weekend.

Throughout the semester, MCC’s Academic Arts Center will be home to a number of student and community events. This Fall, MCC’s Performing Arts department will put on the play “Dead Man’s Cell Phone,” as well as performances by the Lowell Chamber Orchestra, North Sea Gas, and Island of Peoples – all part of the college’s “A World of Music” concert series.

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of “Nosferatu,” MCC’s concert series will screen the film at the Academic Arts Center with accompanying music at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 20. The Dylan Jack Quarter – featuring MCC alum Dylan Jack ­ will perform.

MCC’s Academic Arts Center will also host a lecture as part of the Lowell Celebrates Kerouac Festival on October 8, a Latino Film Festival on October 14 and 15, and a Poetry Festival November 4 to 5.

MCC’s Academic Arts Center is located at 240 Central Street in Lowell. With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St.

“The Academic Arts Center provides a beautiful space for Middlesex students to learn, play and expand their knowledge and talents,” Waldron said. “We look forward to opening up the space even more to the community in the coming years!”