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“This is the first show where we’ll really be taking advantage of the new equipment,” said Lydia Hess, administrative manager of GrandWorks Foundation, the local group that has been working to preserve and improve the theater in downtown Urbana.
GrandWorks is excited to put the new 4K-resolution projecting system and 7.1 surround sound system to use with “Doctor Strange,” she said.
The former movie theater closed in 2013, and GrandWorks purchased it and began renovations in 2014. The group has transformed the original two-cinema layout into one large auditorium and has expanded the stage. They’re also in the process of renovating the lobby and concession stand areas.
Hess credits the community with enabling GrandWorks to make these and other improvements.
“We couldn’t have gotten to where we are now without (their help),” Hess said.
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In honor of Warren Grimes, who originally renovated and opened the theater as a movie theater on Christmas Day in 1941, the Grimes Foundation gifted GrandWorks with a matching $50,000 grant. This, combined with matching gifts from the community, paid for the purchase of the new systems, an improved lighting rig and a screen more than double the size of the original movie screen.
GrandWorks also has plans to purchase a small building next-door that served as a hat shop in the ’40s, and turn it into a small cafe and coffee shop as an addition to the theater. The foundation plans to turn the second floor of the theater into a reception area as well.
Hess said the renovations are an opportunity to give back to the community, and provide them an alternative for seeing movies. Prior to the Gloria’s opening, Urbana residents had to drive to Springfield for the nearest movie theater.
The past few events that have been held at the theater have seen good turnouts, Hess said. She’s expecting a good turnout for the upcoming showings as well and hopes to have the theater filled to capacity.
“We want to make it a memorable experience for the community,” she said.
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