MANSFIELD, Ohio – Film enthusiasts, travelers, and locals are invited to join a grand celebration marking the 30th anniversary of the release of “The Shawshank Redemption,” widely regarded as the No. 1 movie of all time according to IMDb. Known for its compelling story, memorable characters, and iconic themes of hope, the film continues to captivate audiences globally. In 2015, it was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.
The anniversary celebration, scheduled for August 8-11, promises a weekend full of activities including tours of more than a dozen filming locations in and around Mansfield, actor meet-and-greets, photo opportunities, screenings, and panel discussions with the film’s writer/director, actors, and other contributors. For detailed information and updates, visit Shawshank30.com and follow on social media. Tickets are now on sale and event schedules are available at shawshanktrail.com/event-schedule. Events are expected to sell out quickly.
Festivities will take place across Mansfield, Ashland, and Upper Sandusky, Ohio. Highlights include guided and self-guided tours of the prison and other iconic filming sites such as the Ohio State Reformatory, Shawshank Museum, Renaissance Theatre, Shawshank Woodshop in Upper Sandusky, Pugh Cabin at Malabar Farm State Park, and the bank in Ashland. Guided Shawshank Bus Tours are available on Thursday, August 8 at noon, and on Friday at 10 a.m. and noon.
Renowned director and screenwriter Frank Darabont, who adapted Stephen King’s novella “Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption,” will join the celebration. Attendees can also meet Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz, along with cast members Bob Gunton (Warden Norton), William Sadler (Heywood), Gil Bellows (Tommy Williams), Mark Rolston (Bogs Diamond), Alfonso Freeman (Young Ellis Boyd “Red”), Mack Miles (Tyrell), Paul Kennedy (Food-Way Manager), Renee Blaine (Linda Dufresne), Scott Mann (Glenn Quentin), and Claire Slemmer (Bank Teller).
A major highlight of the weekend will be the 30th Anniversary Cast Discussion on Friday, August 9, from 4-5:30 p.m., led by Mankiewicz and featuring Darabont and key cast members. Additional events include the “Behind the Scenes & Beyond” panel on Friday, August 9, from 10-11 a.m., with Shawshank location manager Kokayi Ampah providing insights into the selection of filming sites.
On Saturday, August 10 from 10-11 a.m. and Sunday, August 11 from 9-10 a.m., a Background Actors Panel will offer firsthand accounts from background actors who contributed to the film’s realism. These sessions will reveal how over 180 local actors landed their roles and what their experiences were like.
The celebration kicks off at dusk on Thursday, August 8, with a drive-in movie-style screening of “The Shawshank Redemption” in the historic Renaissance Theatre’s back lot. Additional screenings with reserved seating inside the theater are scheduled for Friday at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday at 12:30 p.m.
Due to high demand, guided tours and accommodations are expected to sell out. For complete visitor and lodging information, visit DestinationMansfield.com or call (800) 642-8282. Travelers are encouraged to explore the region’s other attractions, including the new Buckeye Imagination Museum, Ohio Bird Sanctuary, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Kingwood Center Gardens, and BibleWalk. Mansfield offers a wealth of unique experiences, breathtaking scenery, and rural charm, making it a perfect destination for unforgettable family adventures.
