Overview
The gates of the North Bend Theatre opened on April 9th, 1941 with a showing of “Tall, Dark, and Handsome” starring Cesar Romero and Virginia Gilmore. Since then, the theatre built its identity as being an independent movie theatre showing first-run movies, classic movies, and expanding its resume in participating and hosting many community events such as film festivals, Jazz Walk, Blues Walk, local fundraisers, free Summer matinees, and independent filmmakers’ screenings.
Renovations and More
In 1999, the theatre went under a major renovation in keeping the original charm of the Art Moderne style building though the Slover family. When the Walker family bought the theatre in 2006, they also bought the hearts of many people as the theatre officially became a mark for the popular mountain film festivals. In recent years, the community helped the make the theatre officially enter into the digital age in 2013. Through the love of the people, it can continue its tradition of playing Hollywood blockbusters and other digital presentations.
Some highlights of the renovation include:
- New curtains and wall coverings.
- State of the art projection system and DTS sound system.
- Increased leg room and cupholders.
- New restrooms and heating and cooling systems.
- A bigger lobby with a concession area and traditional snacks.
- A restored facade with a replica of the original neon sign.
Even more recently, the theatre got new owners, the Burrows, whom are ecstatic about being part of this historical landmark as their goal is to continue to care and tastefully improve the building. They may own the building, but the soul of the theatre is carried by everyone; citizens are welcomed to rent out the theatre for parties, private movies, personal film screenings, and corporate meetings.
North Bend Theatre Location
The theatre is located in downtown North Bend on Bendigo Street.