Strand Theatre (Delaware, Ohio) facts for kids
The Strand Theatre is a historic movie theater located in downtown Delaware, Ohio. It's very close to the campus of Ohio Wesleyan University. This theater first opened its doors on April 10, 1916. It is one of the oldest movie theaters still running in the United States. In fact, it's the tenth longest operating one!
Contents
The Strand Theatre's History
Early Days of the Strand
The Strand Theatre welcomed its first moviegoers on April 10, 1916. Its first owner was Henry Bieberson. The building itself was originally a department store called the New York Cash Store, built in 1908. If you visit the theater today, you can still see the original opening announcement. It was printed in The Journal Herald newspaper on April 8, 1916. The Strand has been open continuously since that day, never closing its doors.
Changes in Ownership and Growth
Over the years, the Strand Theatre has had several owners. One of them was Schine Theatres. This was a large chain of movie theaters that operated many locations across six different states.
In 1971, George and Cindy Johnson, who had managed a Schine theater before, bought the Strand. At that time, it only had one screen. They worked to improve the theater. In 1982, they added a second screen in the building next door. Then, in 1986, they turned the original balcony into a third screen.
George and Cindy Johnson later retired. On February 11, 1994, they sold The Strand to Jerry and Cathy Amato. The Amatos kept the theater running during a challenging period. They wanted to make sure it remained an important part of the Delaware community and its history.
Becoming a Non-Profit Community Hub
In 2002, Ohio Wesleyan University took ownership of the theater. This was a big step to help preserve the Strand. When the university took over, they helped create the Strand Theatre and Cultural Arts Association. This is a special non-profit group that now owns and runs the Strand. Being a non-profit means that any money the theater earns goes back into keeping it running and serving the community.
On February 12, 2009, the Strand Theater & Cultural Arts Association received an award. This award recognized the great work they did renovating the snack bar area. It also celebrated the restoration of the windows on the second floor. The theater's manager at the time, Kara (McVay) Long, also received an award. She was recognized for her efforts to support the community and various good causes.
Modern Updates and Digital Era
In 2010, the Strand announced big plans for renovations that would cost $5 million. These plans included adding modern digital projectors, which did happen. They also planned to add three more screens and a new sign with the Strand's name on the marquee. There were also plans for a new back entrance.
The Strand asked for financial help from Delaware County and the City of Delaware. They requested $50,000 from each for new seats and wall coverings. On October 4, 2010, the Delaware County commissioners approved $175,000 for the renovations.
The theater continued to show movies using traditional 35mm film until 2012. The very last movie shown on film at the Strand was The Dark Knight Rises. Since then, all movies shown at the Strand have been digital.
Celebrating 100 Years and Beyond
In 2016, The Strand celebrated 100 years of being open without interruption. This special event was called "Century of Cinema." Outside the theater, there is a strip of stars in the sidewalk. Inside, there is a plaque. Both of these honor the people who donated money to make the renovations possible. A short documentary film about the theater's history was also made at this time.
Today, The Strand continues to operate as a non-profit organization. It works with local businesses and people in the community. This helps keep the theater going strong as an important symbol of the city of Delaware. The Strand regularly shows new movies. It also hosts many community events for everyone to enjoy.
