About the Work of ACT

ACT is a volunteer nonprofit group that was formed to operate the Majestic Theatre as a community theatre. This board of 16 dedicated Thayer County residents plans to continue on and promote film and other performing and fine arts in Thayer County.

Their first goal was to raise enough money to replace the outdated 35mm projector. By May, 2013, their dreams came true and the digital projector was installed. Renovation included new seats, new wall coverings and a new sound system.
The restoration of the cinema was a huge success for this community. Thanks to the amazing outpouring of funds and time, the new cinema is comfortable and clean, the movies are up-to-date, the sound system is fantastic and the visual experience is second-to-none.

History

ACT was founded in October, 2012 when the theater's owners announced that they would have to close due to lack of funds. Because the film industry is requiring all theaters to transition to digital from 35mm, many small theaters are closing. The cost of digital projectors ranges from $50,000 to $100,000. After the announcement, a handful of members of the Thayer County Economic Development Alliance came together to begin fundraising for the digital equipment.

The group immediately decided to form a nonprofit to promote the arts in Thayer County. ACT became incorporated in March, 2013. That month they began managing the theatre which involved learning how to run the 35mm projector and all other aspects of the business. Since then all operations and renovations have been done by generous and committed volunteers dedicated to preserving and maintaining the Majestic for the entertainment and education of Thayer County residents and visitors.

Fundraising continues. Plans are underway now to eventually, purchase another digital projector for the second cinema.