Want to see films for free at the Beacon Theatre, complete with popcorn and pop?

It鈥檚 as easy as volunteering, according to members of the Lakes District Film Society, the non-profit organization operating Canada鈥檚 third community owned cinema.

With summer blockbuster season just weeks away, the film society has issued an urgent plea for volunteers to assist in the theatre鈥檚 concession.

鈥淲ith films like Marvel鈥檚 Avengers, Men In Black 3, Madagascar 3, and The Expendables 2 scheduled to open in a matter of weeks, we need to update our list of volunteers,鈥� explained Anne Currie, the film society鈥檚 volunteer coordinator. 鈥淲e鈥檙e expecting big crowds for these films, and it鈥檚 essential that we have at least one volunteer each weekend night to assist.鈥�

Currie explained that although the theatre has paid employees, it requires a volunteer on some nights to ensure quality customer service. The use of volunteers helps the film society keep operating costs at the theatre down, which in turn helps keep ticket and concession prices in check.

Currie estimated that she needs at least 20 new theatre volunteers to ensure this year鈥檚 operating season is a success.

鈥淰olunteering at the Beacon is a lot of fun, and you don鈥檛 need any experience or special skills to help out,鈥� she noted. 鈥淭he best part, of course, is the fact that in exchange for perhaps an hour of your time, you get to watch the movie for free while enjoying popcorn and pop on us!鈥�

Anyone interested in helping out is urged to contact Currie at 250- 691-0006, or speak to any member of the society.

Beacon Theatre features state-of-the-art digital projection and sound, and will soon add a video gaming system and conferencing equipment.