Edmond Town Hall Grand Opening

Newtown's Edmond Town Hall Theatre at 45 Main Street will host a Grand Opening on Friday and Saturday, April 25 and 26, in celebration of the theater's renovations and conversion to digital technology.

The public is invited to attend the festivities on Friday beginning at 6 PM and which will take place before both free shows of the movie "Gravity" at 7 and 9 p.m. Saturday's festivities will start at noon and continue before each of the free shows at 1, 4, 7 and 9 p.m. The 1 p.m. show will be the sing-along version of "Frozen," while "Gravity " will be the feature for the three remaining shows.

"We have completed the installation of a new NEC digital projector and would like to invite the community to celebrate with us. There will be free movies and a special giveaway," said James Juliano, chairman of the Edmond Town Hall Board of Managers, the elected body responsible for the maintenance of the historic building.

The theater, dedicated in 1930 as part of the Edmond Town Hall, provides affordable family entertainment for Newtown and surrounding communities. It is Connecticut's only $2 movie house and also hosts many live musical productions from chamber music to jazz and rock and roll, as well as civic events, music and dance recitals, fundraisers and other activities.

The conversion is a major factor in helping the subsequent run movie house remain viable in the digital era. Movie studios are phasing out the use of film in movie production and audiences expect the clearer picture and sound quality that digital projectors provide. The new technology will also provide new opportunities to generate revenue for maintenance of the historic building through advertising, meetings and live shows. Theater revenue, in large part, pays for the building's operating expenses.

The digital conversion is the latest among a series of improvements made to the theater in recent years. Additional work completed includes: new sound and lighting systems, plaster molding restoration, new chairs, and dressing room remodeling. All work has been paid with revenues generated from the movies, rental of space and generous donations and advertising revenue from community groups, individuals and businesses including Ingersoll Auto of Danbury, The Lions, and residents Hayden Bates and Scott Cicceri among others.

The Edmond Town Hall, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was a gift from Newtown benefactress Mary Elizabeth Hawley. It has served as the heart of Newtown since its inception by providing residents with governmental services space; family entertainment through its theater; sports opportunities in its gymnasium; and, elegant space rentals to help residents gather or celebrate life events. The building is managed by the Board of Managers, a body of elected volunteers who are responsible for the maintenance of the iconic building. Visit www.edmondtownhall.org for more information.