Instead of waiting another month for the new Nicholas Sparks movie to come out, some fans will have their opportunity to get a sneak peak sooner than they may expect.
They will get their opportunity on Jan. 17 when select movie theaters will host the live one-night theatrical event, “A Night with Nicholas Sparks’ Safe Haven,” said Michelle Portillo, public relations manager for Fathom Events.
“This exclusive event is dedicated solely to a discussion and Q&A session with the author, stars and director of the movie that’s due in theaters next month,” Portillo said in an email. “Audiences will hear personal stories from them about the making of the movie and learn about their experiences on set.”
Although the audience will be seated in a theater, this event gives them the opportunity to engage with the movie cast.
“This event will give audiences a look into the making of the movie while giving them a chance to ask their own questions of the panel,” Portillo said.
Members of this live panel will include author Nicholas Sparks and stars Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough.
“Fans of Nicholas Sparks books and movies, as well as fans of Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough, will enjoy this 90-minute event,” Portillo said.
That audience participation with the cast has been successful in the past.
“We’ve experienced great success with live events over the past decade since the audience feels like they’re part of the event — no matter where they’re watching the event from,” Portillo said.
Fallen Timbers 14 in Maumee is one of the theaters hosting the event.
The theater hosts all the National CineMedia events and this one is no different, said manager Lindsay Sullivan.
Sullivan said although no tickets have been sold yet, she expects a majority will be sold the night of the event.
“There’s usually a really big following for Nicholas Sparks,” Sullivan said. “[The event] will do very well.”
For freshman Shelby Fenn, the draw of Nicholas Sparks is the feeling she gets after seeing the movie.
A fan of the author, Fenn said she enjoys watching “The Notebook,” and is excited for “Safe Haven.”
Fenn said she is considering going to the event next week because she’s curious what the actors will say.
“I want to see what they have to say about the movie,” she said. “I’ll see if it relates to them, not just in acting, but in real life.”