Massive 'Shawshank Redemption' 30th anniversary celebration set for Mansfield, Ohio

MANSFIELD, Ohio (WCMH) — The 30th anniversary of the classic film “The Shawshank Redemption” is set to be a "massive" celebration in the Ohio town and surrounding area where much of the movie was shot.

According to Destination Mansfield, the days-long event will highlight the picture's enduring legacy. The festivities will begin Thursday, Aug. 8 with a drive-in movie-style screening of "The Shawshank Redemption" at the Renaissance Theatre's back lot. Additional screenings with reserved seating will take place on Aug. 9 and 10.

Shawshank fans can take part in tours of more than a dozen filming locations in and around Mansfield following the "Shawshank Trail," a series of significant sites related to IMBD's No. 1 movie of all time. Locations include the Ohio State Reformatory, Shawshank Museum, Renaissance Theatre, Shawshank Woodshop in Upper Sandusky, Pugh Cabin at Malabar Farm State Park, the bank in Ashland and other sites.

Hollywood director Frank Darabont, who directed the film and wrote the screenplay based on Stephen King’s novella, “Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption,” will also be on hand. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet cast members, including Bob Gunton (Warden Norton), William Sadler (Heywood), and Gil Bellows (Tommy Williams).

Special events include a cast discussion led by Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz, behind-the-scenes panels and a background actors panel offering insights into the making of the film.

Destination Mansfield noted that guided tours and accommodations are expected to sell out. Visitors can find lodging and visitor information at DestinationMansfield.com or calling (800) 642-8282.

“The Shawshank Redemption” anniversary event schedule