Rome's Capitol Theatre debuts 'Downton Abbey: A New Era.' How to join the preview event

Rome’s historic Capitol Theatre will host a special preview showing of "Downton Abbey: A New Era" at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 18 prior to its national opening.

The popular television series "Downton Abbey" aired in the U.S. as part of the PBS Masterpiece Theatre series. "Downton Abbey: A New Era" continues the story as the characters journey to the South of France to uncover the mystery of the Dowager Countess’ (Maggie Smith) newly inherited villa.

Simon Curtis directed the script by series creator Julian Fellows, and the cast includes Hugh Bonneville, Jim Carter, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern and Allen Leech. "Downton Abbey: A New Era" runs two hours, five minutes and is rated PG.

The special preview showing at the newly restored 1928 Capitol Theatre will feature beverages, including English tea, for sale by Superofficial Drinks, as well as associated light refreshments. The Capitol concession stand will be open as usual.

Best of the Best: Vote now in readers' choice awards

After the May 18 premiere, the movie’s run will resume at the intimate Cinema Capitol next door beginning Friday, May 20 and continuing through Memorial Day, May 30, with shows at 4 and 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 1 and 4 p.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Mondays. The 4 p.m. Friday and 1 p.m. Sunday shows are open captioned for the hearing impaired.

Tickets for all shows including the premiere at the 1,728 seat Capitol Theatre are $8 for adults, $7 for students and military and $6 for Capitol Friends.

The Capitol Theatre is at 222 W. Dominick St. in Rome. For more information, call the Capitol box office at 315-337-6277.

This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Capitol Theatre premieres 'Downton Abbey: A New Era'