The Cinema and Television Benevolent Fund (CTBF), the leading charity for the UK film, cinema and commercial television industries, has announced it is hosting a world exclusive preview screening of the Series Five opener of ITV’s hugely-popular Downton Abbey. Thanks to ITV and production company Carnival, the red carpet event will take place at the iconic Empire Leicester Square, on 17th September alongside the show’s cast and creators.

Bringing high-society glamour to the West End, the cast and creators will arrive on the red carpet in a classic car plucked from the twenties, with guests including series creator Julian Fellowes, Executive Producer Gareth Neame and cast members Jim Carter (Mr. Carson), Laura Carmichael (Lady Edith) and Lesley Nicol (Mrs Patmore).

Richard Wilson, CEO of The CTBF, said:

‘We are absolutely delighted to showcase Downton Abbey to members of the public, in what is a special and unique event for The CTBF. In an evening fit for an Earl, guests will witness the stunning first episode of Season 5, knowing they have raised crucial funds for our beneficiaries who work behind the scenes in film and television.’

Gareth Neame, Managing Director, Carnival added:

‘The chance to see these much-loved characters on the new IMAX screen at The Empire Leicester Square is not to be missed, and we can’t wait for audiences to get their first glimpse of the thrilling new series. We are of course delighted to support The CTBF as a charity dedicated to providing exceptional support for our industry’.

Series Five of the multi-award winning, worldwide cultural phenomenon will see the return of the Crawley family as the roaring twenties continue apace and the decade’s transformations bring change both upstairs and down. Already announced to join the cast for the new series are Richard E. Grant and Anna Chancellor.

Tickets include red carpet arrival, a glass of champagne and exclusive Q&A preceding the screening, and are available to purchase from www.ctbf.co.uk/downton

Exclusive Interview with Julian Fellowes below: