A LARGE-screen cinema will premiere the latest version of a Disney classic when it opens this month.

The cinema in Durham's new £30m Millennium City complex will be opened by boy band A1 and Durham-born Blue Peter presenter Matt Baker, on January 19.

Before the opening, there will be a balloon release outside the complex's £14m Gala Theatre. The first film to be screened will be a remastered version of Disney's Beauty and the Beast.

From then on, the film will be shown several times a day on the 40ft by 35ft screen, boasting the latest in clarity and sound system technology.

The cinema will also show The Sacred Journey, a specially-commissioned film depicting the region's heritage, but this is not yet complete.

General manager Rob Flower said there were plans to extend the cinema's use further.

"Initially, only Beauty and the Beast will be screened, because The Sacred Journey is not ready yet, but we have also had interest from performers wanting to use the space," said Mr Flower yesterday.

"It has potential as a lecture or conference space, and there is an intention to have a 35mm adapter, which would allow us to show things like art house films.

"We will also be talking to Durham University, schools and colleges in the region and finding out if there is a particular film, or genre, that they want to see."

The cinema will be the only one in the North-East showing the latest version of Beauty and the Beast.

Mr Flower said Disney planned to rerelease other films in the format.

"Disney has remastered Beauty and the Beast as a pilot film, with the intention of formatting all their blockbusters for large screens," he said.

"They are very popular in the United states and will grow in popularity here as people see the difference."

Tickets cost £5.25 for adults and £4.25 for concessions.