Grand Theatre buys building; to add screen

 RED OAK — In 2009, the Grand Theatre showed what was thought to be its final film after a more than 60-year run. As the credits finished rolling, the stray popcorn was swept up, coming attraction signs were taken down and the doors were locked, possibly forever. 

But the City of Red Oak wasn’t about to lose their theatre without a fight, and in 2010, the Downtown LLC purchased the building to be run as a non-profit, which has thrived on $2 ticket prices and a strong support of volunteers. 

Now, more than three years later, the theatre board is moving on to their next project — expansion.  The board, which consists of 15 members, purchased the building adjacent to the theatre, 408 E. Coolbaugh, in October with the plan of adding a second screen. 

“I think this idea just started as a building that was empty and we wanted to improve it, and in doing that we’re going to expand the theatre,” Board President Cathy Crowe said. 

Crowe said the format will likely stay the same with the additional screen — $2 tickets, cheap concessions and volunteer-operated. 

However, the second screen could allow for more adult-themed movies, instead of just the G and PG rated fair typically shown. 

Past President Mary Fenstermann said there has been some discussion about adding 3D capabilities. However, she said that would require an increase in ticket prices, which they are trying to avoid.  

“We wanted to get more selection and be able to provide more entertainment for the people of Red Oak,” Treasurer Sherry Carrick said. “That’s why we continue to do what we do.” 

While the board has big dreams, they know expansion isn’t a simple process for a non-profit organization. 

The new building, which was purchased from Jacky and Lynn Adams for $7,000, has been vacant for decades and requires a great deal of work. 

It currently has no plumbing or electricity. The floor needs to be lowered to create the slope of a theatre, and the ceiling needs to be raised to accommodate the height of the screen. 

Crowe said they received a $20,000 grant from the Montgomery County Community Foundation in the spring, which was used to purchase the building. The remainder of the grant will cover some of the initial costs needed to prepare the building for renovations, including a possible asbestos inspection and/or removal along with roof repair. 

The major interior renovations will be done in phases, which have yet to be established. 

Crowe said they are still in the early phases of planning, but the whole project will likely be done throughout a five-year period as money becomes available. 

The project will be paid for through grants, fundraising and profits from concession and ticket sales.

When the theatre reopened as a non-profit, donating back to the community was a top priority, and Crowe said that won’t change with the upcoming expenses. 

The board will continue to provide a $500 scholarship to a high school senior each year. They also donate to other community events and organizations, including area food banks. 

While they have a strong volunteer base, Crowe said help is always needed. Volunteers can sign up at the theatre during one of the regular show times, Friday and Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.  

Donations are also accepted.

“All we are trying to do is grow for our community and continue to provide good family-friendly entertainment,” Crowe said. “This is all for the people of Red Oak.”