Opera Territoria

I received the following press release which is interesting on a number of counts, particularly from the perspective of exhibitor programme choice, emerging programming possibilities for other venues, and the added pressure on screen space for films that already find it difficult to secure distribution and exhibition.

But spot the territorial issue that demonstrates both an attitude in the trade and the degree to which programming is being determined outside Ireland.

"European Cinema Audiences First to Experience Carmen in 3D
Valentine’s Day Preview of World’s First 3D Opera in 51 Locations in the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain and Italy.
"LOS ANGELES and LONDON (February 3, 2011) – RealD Inc. (NYSE: RLD) announced today that European audiences will be the first in the world to experience Carmen in 3D when the theatrical entertainment event is previewed in 51 locations across in the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain and Italy on Monday 14 February, prior to its worldwide release on Saturday 5 March 2011, exclusively in RealD 3D-equipped theatres.
"Carmen in 3D previews will take place on 14 February at the following locations (show times available in local listings):
United Kingdom
Odeon Cinemas:
Basingstoke
Bath
Belfast
Blackpool
Blanchardstown
Cardiff
Colchester
Covent Garden
Edinburgh Lothian Road
Esher
Glasgow Quay
Guildford
Harrogate
Kettering
Limerick
Lincoln
Liverpool ONE
Manchester
MetroCentre
Norwich
Oxford -- George Street
Sheffield
Southampton
Swiss Cottage
Tunbridge Wells
Waterford
Wimbledon

ENDS

[The italics are mine]