Hooray for Harryhausen: A Day of Films, Creatures & Curiosity
To celebrate the opening of our major new exhibition, Ray Harryhausen: Myths in Motion, we're inviting audiences of all ages to step into the extraordinary world of one of cinema's greatest visual storytellers.
Hooray for Harryhausen: A Day of Films, Creatures & Curiosity
Saturday 26 September 2026
The Arc, Winchester
From battling skeletons and mythical beasts to dinosaurs, dragons and adventures across strange and distant lands, Ray Harryhausen's pioneering stop-motion creations have inspired generations of filmmakers, artists and dreamers. Now, for one special day, we're bringing that world to life at The Arc.
Join us for family-friendly film screenings, exclusive exhibition tours, creative creature-making for children, fascinating conversations and the chance to meet those helping preserve Harryhausen's remarkable legacy. Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering Harryhausen for the very first time, this is a unique opportunity to celebrate imagination, craftsmanship and the magic of movie-making. Tickets can be booked for each event by following the links below.
Explore the exhibition Ray Harryhausen: Myths in Motion
Opening on 26 September, Ray Harryhausen: Myths in Motion is a spectacular exhibition showcasing the life, career and enduring influence of the legendary animator and special effects pioneer. Featuring iconic creatures, rare artefacts, artwork and insights into Harryhausen's groundbreaking techniques, the exhibition reveals how one man's imagination transformed cinema forever.
This special launch day is your chance to be among the very first visitors to experience the exhibition.
Book here:
Ray Harryhausen: Myths in Motion
10:00am Family Film Screening: Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger (U)
Set sail on a magical adventure packed with mythical monsters, heroic quests and some of Harryhausen's most memorable creations.
Perfect for families and younger audiences, this colourful fantasy classic remains a wonderful introduction to the world of Ray Harryhausen.
Tickets: £5
Book here:
Family Film Screening: Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger (U)
11:00am & 1:30pm: Guided Exhibition Tours
Join Connor Heaney and Vanessa Harryhausen for exclusive guided tours of Ray Harryhausen: Myths & Motion.
Discover the stories behind the creatures, learn about Harryhausen's creative process and gain unique insights into the life and work of a true cinematic visionary.
Spaces are limited.
Tickets: £12.50 / £10.50 concession
Book your tour tickets here:
Guided Exhibition Tours with Connor Heaney & Vanessa Harryhausen
12:00pm: Make Your Own Harryhausen Creature, suitable for all children
Inspired by the fantastic monsters and mythical beings featured throughout Harryhausen's films, young artists can create their very own creature using colourful air-dry foam clay. From cyclopes and dragons to completely original creations, this hands-on workshop encourages imagination, storytelling and creativity.
Suitable for children and families.
Tickets: £5 per child
Book workshop:
Make Your Own Harryhausen Creature
3:00pm
The Valley of Gwangi (U): Screening, Conversation & Q&A
A unique opportunity to experience one of Harryhausen's most ambitious films on the big screen. 
Part western, part dinosaur adventure and entirely unforgettable, The Valley of Gwangi showcases the astonishing effects work that made Harryhausen a legend.
Following the screening, we are hugely honoured to be joined by Vanessa Harryhausen, Connor Heaney, John Walsh and Mike Hankin for a special Q&A exploring Harryhausen's life, work and enduring influence on cinema.
Ticket includes:
- Film screening
- Audience Q&A
- Popcorn
- Glass of wine (or exclusive Harryhausen pin badge option for younger visitors)
- Book Signing & Photo Opportunity- Round off the day with the opportunity to meet our special guests, have books signed and take photographs.
Tickets: £20
Book here:
Hooray for Harryhausen: The Valley of Gwangi (1969) + Q&A
Alongside the exhibition and events, visitors can enjoy everything The Arc has to offer, including our welcoming café bar, gallery spaces and creative atmosphere in the heart of Winchester. We look forward to welcoming you for this special celebration of cinema, creativity and imagination!
All image credits: © The Ray & Diana Harryhausen Foundation
