Getting reel: Theater reopens with free screening

By STEVE REEVES, Fort Jackson LeaderNovember 12, 2009

Getting reel: Theater reopens with free screening
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- Like a faded movie star making a spectacular comeback, the Fort Jackson Theater is reopening this weekend after undergoing an extensive interior renovation.

Sporting a new Dolby Digital sound system, upgraded projection equipment and concessions, fresh paint, new seats and carpet, the theater means members of the Fort Jackson community don't have to venture off post for a quality movie experience.

The sparkling new interior is a far cry from just a couple of years ago when the theater was shut down after it had become dilapidated.

"This is now a state-of-the-art theater," said Jason Rosenberg, general manager Fort Jackson's AAFES facilities. "Aside from the actual structure, everything else is brand new."

Tickets will be priced at $4 for adults and $2 for children, compared to the average off-post cost of a movie ticket of $6 for an adult with a military discount. Concessions at the Fort Jackson Theater will cost on average 20 percent less than those at civilian theaters.

"To take a family of four to the movies, it's a great value compared to other theaters," Rosenberg said. "This is a great addition to the Fort Jackson community."

Patrons can get a preview of the newly refurbished theater on Friday, with a screening of "Fame" at 7 p.m.

But the main attraction is the grand reopening on Saturday with a ribbon cutting at 2 p.m. A free screening of the movie, "The Blind Side," starring Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw begins at 3 p.m.

"The Blind Side," a true story about former college All-American and current professional football player Michael Oher, is being made available to Fort Jackson before its national premiere Nov. 20.

Tickets can be picked up at the Main Food Court, the AIT Troop Store and the Gate 1 Shoppette.

Having a ticket does not guarantee entry to the movie since it is on a first-come, first-serve basis and the theater holds 750 patrons.

"If someone doesn't get a ticket, they should come anyway," Rosenberg said. "Someone who does have a ticket may decide not to come. We're going to try to get everybody in."