Cinema Treasures

Cinebarre opens in Salem

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:45:23 GMT

SALEM, OR -- The former Regal Movieland 7 has been reborn as the Cinebarre. In addition to cocktail service and expanded menu offerings, the theater has a rentable VIP viewing space.

Nearly 400 people attended the theater's grand opening event Thursday night, Karol said. The theater is the former Regal Cinemas' Movieland 7. Cinebarre offers first-run movies and caters to adults -- minors younger than 18 will be seated in the theater only if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children younger than 6 are only allowed into the theater on its designated "scream day," which is the first showing every Tuesday.

New theater opening in Pittsfield

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:40:13 GMT

PITTSFIELD, MA -- The new Beacon Cinema opening on November 20 combines elements of the old and new. Housed within the 91-year-old Kinnell-Kresge building, designers have restored original ceilings and woodwork. The six-screen theater itself is technologically up-to-date with stadium seating and automated digital projection. The theater will serve beer and wine, in addition to typical movie concession fare.

The Eagle got a sneak peak of the state-of-the-art movie theater on Friday afternoon, however, and from the building's original tin ceilings and woodwork to its state-of-the-art Dolby digital sound system, the public is in for an architectural and theatrical experience that's sure to stimulate the senses. The behind-the-scenes look included a tour of the six-screen, 850-seat cinema, which evokes memories of an old neighborhood picture house -- albeit with modern upgrades such as stadium seating, which is designed give moviegoers a comfortable viewing experience, and a bar serving wine and beer.

GreenTree Theaters update

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:38:30 GMT

CLARKSVILLE, IN -- The GreenTree Mall in Clarksville Indiana has lost both of its movie theaters to newer stadium facilities in the area. My company FrightNight Productions currently leases the 4 as Psychomania http://www.TheaterofTerror.com, a large haunted house that loosely follows the history of the theater and grounds. As a subsidiary of FNP, I am working on a lease agreement for the 25,000 square ft. GreenTree 10. I plan on using the theater as live performance, studio, independent cinema and audio recording space. I will be putting back in a full concession stand and redoing the lobby. Wish me luck and I will post as soon as I have word

Theater for sale

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:30:21 GMT

Theater in Burlington Wisconsin for sale. Four screen profitable. Great location no competition in town. Town size 10,500. Great little investment. Asking $715K. Call (262)853-4338 for details.

Stalled restoration of Saenger Theater in N.O. to lift off in January

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:48:01 GMT

NEW ORLEANS, LA -- Advertising for bids to begin restoration work on the Saenger Theater in the Big Easy which was ravaged by Hurricane Katrina's flood waters will begin in January. A recent article indicates that the plans will not simply restore the theater to its pre-Katrina appearance, but will result in the theater's looking more like it did when it opened in 1927 by removing later additions such as the escalator, restoring the auditorium's original color scheme, and using period hardware. The article includes diagrams and a picture of the damaged interior.

Out of the darkness that has prevailed since Hurricane Katrina, the bulbs of the Saenger's giant marquee are expected to blink on to mark the coming return of the landmark playhouse that for years anchored the performing arts district along the city's signature commercial boulevard. The $38.8 million reconstruction of performance, patron and office space through an innovative alliance of the Canal Street Development Corp., an arm of City Hall, and the property's longtime private owner-managers, Saenger Theatre Partnership of Houston, was announced to great fanfare in January. Until now, though, most progress has transpired on architects' drawing boards and in negotiations with financiers.

More at NOLA.com .

Gentry Cinema For Sale - motivated seller

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:40:42 GMT

CHECOTAH, OK -- The owner will soon be moving out of state and is ready to consider all reasonable offers. The asking price is $285,000. Located in Checotah, Oklahoma, this theater closed in 1996. It was re-opened in Dec. 2008 after twinning and renovation. All new: facade and building exterior, windows and doors, plumbing, restrooms, electrical system, heat and air system and ductwork, fire sprinkler system, insulation in attic and walls, marquee, draperies, screens, sound. Replaced and upgraded projectors and added platters. Installed like-new seats. New concession counter with enough equipment for a small restaurant. Tables and seating for 20 in concession area. Currently have food license. Serving some hot food. Could serve more. Showing first run films. Located in market area of 20,000 people. Competition is over 20 miles away. Owner is undercapitalized after remodel. $285,000 includes land, building, equipment, and business.

Wenatchee area theater and drive-in properties for sale

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:34:54 GMT

WENATCHEE, WA -- Sun Basin Theaters is putting two of its current properties up for sale: the five-screen Columbia Cinemas in East Wenatchee and the Vue Dale Drive-In in South Wenatchee. The owner hopes to use the proceeds to finance a new multiplex and any purchaser will not be able to use the properties for motion picture exhibition.

The sales could help finance renovation of the old Kmart building in Olds Station into a theater and retail complex, said Sun Basin general manager Bryan Cook. The theater company acquired a purchase option on the Kmart property in June, said Cook, and continues in discussions with the property's owner toward completing the purchase. The building and a portion of the surrounding acreage is owned by the state. "If all goes well, we should have traction in the deal by the end of November," he said. The Liberty Cinemas in downtown Wenatchee won�t be affected by the sale of the other two properties, Cook said. "Over the last few years, we�ve made a lot of improvements at the Liberty and definitely plan to keep it going."

More detail in the Wenatchee World.

"The Art of the Movie Theater" photo exhibition at the National Heritage Museum

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:50:54 GMT

LEXINGTON, MA -- A free exhibition of the work of photographer Stefanie Klavens entitled "The Art of the Movie Theater" will be on display at the National Heritage Museum in Lexington from now until May 16, 2010. Klavens sees the theaters she has photographed as important monuments to popular culture, and is especially impressed with neon, Art Deco, and theaters with an Egyptian or Middle Eastern theme in both large and small towns.

In taking the photos, she found a place in time when theaters often reflected the splendor of opera houses, with gilded statues and pillars. In the early 1920s, a craze of all things Egyptian and Middle Eastern led to a flowering of theaters decorated as Pharaonic fantasies, inspired by Howard Carter�s excavation of King Tutankhamen's tomb. "There are only six Egyptian style theaters left in the country," Klavens said. In later decades, neon signs created a fantasia of light and color to grace many theater exteriors.

More information can be found in the Metro West Daily News and at the museum's website.

Memories of the downtown theaters of St. Paul

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:45:57 GMT

ST. PAUL, MN -- In a recent article in the Pioneer Press, writer Tom Webb, former movie critic Bill Diehl, and others recall the movie theaters of downtown St. Paul. The article focuses on the Paramount, Orpheum, Strand, Tower, Riviera, World, and Lyceum, Now only the World (now the Fitzgerald) and the Orpheum are still with us, the latter currently vacant and decaying. The article includes a slide show with pictures of each theater.

Today, in an era of suburban multiplexes, video rentals and movie channels, the movie theater business model is radically different. Yet, to those who loved downtown's Technicolor era, the memories are like something from the movies. 'Wabasha and Seventh was the busiest corner in St. Paul in those days,' said Rod Ripley, a retiree who remembers the heyday of the '40s and '50s. 'All the streetcars met there for transfers and would line up there after midnight to leave on the hour.'

Read the whole article at TwinCities.com.

Nationwide Historic Theatre silent film & concert performances by Dennis James

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:35:52 GMT

DENNIS JAMES - 2009/2010 TOUR PERFORMANCES SCHEDULE Performance Booking Contact: SILENT FILM CONCERTS- PO Box 2072, Tacoma, WA 98401 / 253-376-7447 / muscur@gmail.com November 13, Blue Mouse Theatre, Tacoma, Washington 86th Anniversary screening: original opening night film THE GREEN GODDESS November 15, Palace Theatre, Marion, Ohio Yannitell Memorial silent film series: Buster Keaton in THE CAMERAMAN November 28, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C. Annual silent film series: King Vidor's THE CROWD December 5, Recital Hall, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina Annual silent film program: Protazanov's AELITA, QUEEN OF MARS with the Filmharmonia Duo (Mark Goldstein, electronics) December 12, Castro Theatre, San Francisco, California Silent film festival: Buster Keaton in THE GOAT plus SHERLOCK, JR. and Lon Chaney in WEST OF ZANZIBAR 2010

Encore showings of "The Wizard of Oz" on Nov. 17, but has it peaked in terms of its appeal?

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:59:54 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - The successful one-night showing of 1939's "The Wizard of Oz" in hundreds of theaters across the country in September is prompting a second round of screenings in over 300 theaters on November 17.

Tickets for The Wizard of Oz 70th Anniversary Encore Event are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com For a complete list of theater locations and prices, please visit the web site (theaters are subject to change). "Tens of thousands of fans nationwide celebrated the 70th anniversary of this beloved family classic in local movie theaters in September and due to the overwhelming response, we are proud to present a final opportunity for fans to gather again and experience 'The Wizard of Oz' on the big screen," said Dan Diamond, vice president of Fathom.

Read the full announcement at Reuters.

Alhambra Theatre demolished

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:48:53 GMT

OPENSHAW, MANCHESTER, ENGLAND -- Along with many shops and houses, the Alhambra Theatre is being demolished as I am writing this article. I noticed as I went to work, bit by bit, the demolition team working their way up the high street. Eventually and aided by a coincidence of fire, the Alhambra is now partly demolished. A real shame. But I guess it's just another old building in the way of progress. Andy Dixon 09/11/2009

Terrace Hippodrome to run 26 hour "Twilight: New Moon"

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:40:19 GMT

CHARLESTON, SC -- The Terrace Hippodrome Wide Screen is proud to announce a 26 hour all through the night marathon of "Twilight: New Moon". Starting Thursday night November 19th at Midnight finishing up at 2 am Saturday November 21 St. "Twilight New Moon" will play around the clock for this season's biggest movie extravaganza. The Hippodrome Wide Screen boasts Charleston's largest movie screen and Charleston's only leather stadium seating. See Twilight in Grande style. Prizes and giveaways for a night of fun. 724-9134 for tickets or online here.

Blue Mouse Theatre 1923 opening night re-creation with Dennis James

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:55:45 GMT

TACOMA, WA -- Years in the making, finally the "Green Goddess" returns! This is a rare opportunity not to be missed! A Special Engagement at the Blue Mouse Theatre in Tacoma's Historic Proctor District (one day only!) "Green Goddess" (1923) Friday, November 13, 2009, 7:00 PM The Blue Mouse�s opening night film accompanied live by world renowned Silent Film Organist Dennis James & Live Vaudeville Act.

Overton Theater coming back to life

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:50:30 GMT

OVERTON, TX -- Closed for over four decades, the Overton Theater is being restored by Loretta and John Posey. The work is expected to take nearly two years. Original materials are being used and fixtures and details recreated.

The restoration of the theater came about after the building was bought by Loretta and John Posey as one of several building restoration projects in downtown Overton. "We bought it because we have a heart for this community, and we've had a business here for well over ten years," she said. "We wanted to do dinner and a movie and have live performances with bands, plays and if the stage is big enough, ballet."

Read more in this article with pictures from the Tyler Paper.

Iconic Chapel Hill Landmark Theatre To Reopen

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:45:23 GMT

CHAPEL HILL, NC -- After closing this past summer, the Varsity Theatre, a historic landmark in Downtown Chapel Hill on East Franklin Street for more than 80 years is scheduled to reopen on November 9, 2009 under new management. The theatre, which in the past showcased foreign and independent films will present mainstream films as well as classic films at reduced prices.

Today, new owners will announce their plans for renovation, which include an upgraded lobby and concession area and a children�s birthday party room. The owners declined requests for an interview until their announcement. Former owner Bruce Stone, who operated the Varsity for nine years, said lowering prices didn�t work for him, and he doesn�t know how $3 movie tickets will work to sustain the new Varsity.

Read more of this article in the Daily Tarheel.

Brand new theater seating starting @ $89 per chair

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:30:42 GMT

That's right , affordable high quality commercial grade fixed seating at a reasonable price for your theater , educational or worship needs. This awesome pricing is directly due to a new international fixed seating manufacturer that is extremely competitive in the open market. For additional information click link @ http://shop.ebay.com/merchant/uniquedesign09 or simply call toll free # 866-860-7236 or # 214-550-0799

Rare 35mm prints at the 26th Olympia Film Festival

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:47:39 GMT

OLYMPIA, WA -- The 26th Olympia Film Festival at the historic 772-seat single-screen Capitol Theater begins Friday Nov. 6 with the unreleased-on-video 35mm feature "Nothing Lasts Forever", starring Zach Galligan and Bill Murray. Other 35mm prints of unreleased-on-video films include Ken Russell's "The Devils" in a rarely screened LPP print, Paul Newman's adaptation of Ken Kesey's "Sometimes a Great Notion", the 1933 "Alice in Wonderland" starring Cary Grant, Gary Cooper, and W.C. Fields, and the 1932 Charles Laughton / Bela Lugosi classic "Island of Lost Souls". A 3-D print of Andy Warhol's "Frankenstein" will be introduced by star Udo Kier and we also celebrate the 20th anniversary of All Freakin' Night with an all-35mm print extravaganza featuring "Starchaser: The Legend of Orin in 3-D", "Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2", "Rolling Thunder", "Street Trash", and "A Nightmare on Elm Street Part 2". And much much more! Check out the festival website for more info! The festival runs November 6-14, 2009!

Pittsburgh's Cheswick Theater closing

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:45:45 GMT

PITTSBURGH, PA -- The number of screens it has had over the years expanded and contracted, but for over six decades, the Cheswick Theatre has been entertaining patrons in the Alle-Kiski Valley area. The owner is reluctant to close it, but economic realities have left him no choice.

"I didn't want to close it, but there is such a thing that when it starts costing you money, you have no other alternative." The closing of the four-screen Cheswick Theatre along the north side of Pittsburgh Street comes two years after its sister building, which had two screens, closed. It's another step toward the end of an era in the Alle-Kiski Valley in which movie lovers flocked to downtown neighborhood theaters in New Kensington, Vandergrift, Cheswick and Tarentum.

Strand in Dover to be auctioned off

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:45:08 GMT

DOVER, NH -- The Strand triplex will be on the auction block on November 19. Built in 1919, the theater was operated by the Spinelli circuit which recently shut down all of its theaters.

Assessed at $705,300, the theater is one of two properties on a 2005 mortgage held by Rose Realty LLC in Madbury. The other property is located off Route 11 in Rochester -- where Spinelli had plans for a theater in 2006 -- and was the subject of a $150,000 foreclosure deed this past summer. The mortgage was in the amount of $429,500. Spinelli has encountered other financial challenges, including lawsuits for back rent at his Barrington theater and unpaid rent at the defunct Somersworth location.

More information at Fosters.com.

MPAA undercuts cinema distrubution

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:40:40 GMT

The MPAA announced that they are paving the way towards bypassing theaters in the film distribution model.

In a filing today with the Federal Communications Commission, the Motion Picture Association of America, Inc. (MPAA) reinforced the benefits of allowing studios the option of sending movies fresh from the box office to tens of millions of American households. "Many of us love movies, but we just can't make it to the theater as often as we'd like. That is especially true for parents of young children, rural Americans who live far from the multiplex and people with disabilities that keep them close to home," MPAA Chairman and CEO Dan Glickman said. "Having the added option to enjoy movies in a more timely fashion at home would be a liberating new choice."

Read the full story at Deadline Hollywood.

Vintage movie theater seats for sale

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:30:53 GMT

I'm selling a bunch of old movie theater seats salvaged from a Masonic lodge built in the 1920s. I've uploaded photos here They're located in Dallas, Texas. I'm happy to ship anywhere in the U.S. if you have a shipping company that can pick them up.

Former Stadium 12 in Bonita Springs to re-open as cafe cinema

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:40:17 GMT

BONITA SPRINGS, FL -- The Regal Stadium 12, which closed in June, will re-open in as the Prado Cinema Cafe. The twelve screens will remain; new amenities will include leather seats, a grill menu, beer and wine availability, and wait service. The Prado's other tenants hope the theater's re-opening will increase traffic at the distressed shopping plaza.

Four months after Regal Stadium 12 shuttered its doors in Bonita Springs, a new movie theater has announced plans for a return to the big screen in full Hollywood style, with more bells and more whistles. Cinema Cafe is expected to open in February in The Prado at Spring Creek on U.S. 41, featuring 12 screens, leather seats, beer and wine service, a grill menu and waiter service. "The Prado Cinema Cafe will bring a long overdue, upgraded cinema experience with value-added services to the Lee County area, but at affordable, everyday prices," said Doug Olson, sales and leasing specialist for LandQwest Commercial, who secured the deal.

More detail in the Naples News.

Varsity to re-open as bargain cinema

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:35:55 GMT

CHAPEL HILL, SC -- Although previously reported to be closed permanently, the Varsity Theater will be re-opening under new ownership as a $3 discount house.

Chapel Hill residents Susan and Paul Shareshian have begun working to restore the theater to its former elegance. "We want to bring back the feeling of a classic old-time movie theater and also provide a clean and fun space -- with excellent service and a customer-focused staff -- where local residents can enjoy a movie at a reasonable price," says Paul Shareshian in a news release.

Nerwall Film presents "Midnight Show"

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:30:49 GMT

Long time cinema treasures fan and theater manager in south jersey is working on an indie horror film with canadian comic book company arcana studios. The film is an old fashion ghost story set in an aged multiplex (every theater has a ghost story). Pre-production is underway contact nerwallfilms1@yahoo.com for more information. You Tube Clip