Brattleboro
Latchis Theatre Revives Classic Films to Boost Local Engagement
Amid streaming and sequels, Brattleboro’s historic Latchis Theatre has found surprising success bringing back such black-and-white classics as “Casablanca.” Read the story on VTDigger here: Play it again, Sam: A Vermont picture palace reels in new money with old movies.
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Key points
- Latchis Theatre is screening classic films to attract local audiences.
- Upcoming events include screenings of ‘Sunset Boulevard’ and ‘Paper Moon.’
- The theater is adapting to changes in viewership post-pandemic by offering diverse programming.
MONTPELIER, Vt. NewsWK — The historic Latchis Theatre in Brattleboro, Vermont, is breathing new life into its operations by screening classic films, offering local residents a chance to enjoy beloved movies while supporting their only cinema within a half-hour radius.
Historic Roots and Contemporary Challenges
Opened shortly after the Great New England Hurricane of 1938, the Latchis Theatre has a rich history of premiering notable films, from the grand opening featuring “That Certain Age” to iconic showings of “The Wizard of Oz” and “Gone with the Wind.” Jon Potter, the executive director, reflects on this legacy, stating, “A lot of the history of cinema has taken place right here. We hearken back to a golden age, and part of the experience is a trip back in time.”
This summer, the theatre is not only showcasing modern sequels but also attracting attention with classic films like the Oscar-winning “Casablanca,” which recently sold nearly 400 tickets during a one-night-only screening.
Upcoming Events at the Latchis
- June 14: Screening of “Sunset Boulevard” with author David Lubin.
- June 19: Documentary “Steal This Story, Please!” featuring Amy Goodman.
- June 21: “Paper Moon” screening for Father’s Day.
Despite facing challenges, including a reduced audience due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Latchis Theatre has adapted by hosting special events and private rentals to maintain its viability. Potter notes, “Things are in a transformative moment. Our movie audience is half of what it was before the Covid-19 pandemic, so we are doing more special events than ever of all shapes and sizes.”
Community Engagement and Future Plans
The theatre’s unique combination of being a first-run cinema and an event space sets it apart, though it also poses challenges. The Latchis is committed to offering diverse programming, from live performances to classic film screenings. Recently, theatre manager Luis Negron suggested showing “Casablanca” on Valentine’s Day, noting that it resonated with audiences seeking stories of heroism and love.
As the Latchis gears up for future screenings, including the classic “A Streetcar Named Desire” in September, Potter emphasizes the importance of drawing locals out of their homes: “There are lots of reasons to stay home, so you have to give people a reason to come out.” This dedication to community engagement is vital for keeping the theatre thriving in the years to come.
Based on reporting originally published by VTDigger. Read the original story.
