Roman Holiday & Live Accordion Set by Simon Wood at Howard Assembly Rooms
Tom Grieve, Cinema Editor
Coming to the Howard Assembly Rooms this Valentine’s Day, a special screening of William Wyler’s classic 1953 romantic comedy, Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck.
A charming slice of Hollywood escapism, the film earned Hepburn an Oscar in what was her first leading role. The actress stars as a bored and sheltered European princess who escapes her guardians and slips into a romance with Peck’s worldly, fast talking American newsman. Aside from the glamour of the central duo, Wyler’s film offers an irresistible, romanticised version of post-war Rome — largely thanks to extensive on-location filming — that continues to enchant audiences to this day.
It’s a film in keeping with the Howard Assembly Rooms’ tradition of offering a bittersweet Valentine’s treat and the venue will be configured in cabaret layout for the evening. Adding extra magic to the night is Simon Wood, who will set the mood with a live accordion set before the screening.
