Lights, camera, action...and plenty of popcorn!
I'm old enough to remember the good old days when thousands of movies weren't available on our home screens at the click of a button, and going to a movie theater was a real treat.
You can still capture the thrill of the cinema experience with a trip to The Royal Theater in Danville. Located on the Hendricks County Courthouse Square, the theater has been owned by Bill and Sharon Wright since 2017.
Here are five reasons you should experience this historic Hendricks County landmark.
1. Nostalgia
When purchasing the theater, Bill promised to preserve its history. The exterior has that vintage movie theater look and inside many original items have been preserved from the original theater, which opened on the square in 1914 and moved to its current location in 1927.
You will see classic movie posters hanging on the walls, along with a case showcasing old ticket stubs, film reels and photographs. And you can't miss the huge vintage projector on display in the lobby!
2. Price
Unlike Big Box theaters that charge a fortune for tickets, The Royal Theater has charged $5 a ticket for years. And Bill says that price is here to stay.
They also offer a summer movie series with free kid-friendly flicks on Wednesdays.
3. Perfected Popcorn
Salty, buttery popcorn is my favorite part of any movie outing, and the popcorn at The Royal Theater is truly top-notch. Sharon spent months perfecting the popcorn, experimenting with various brands and seasonings until she came up with her very own recipe.
The theater gets plenty of customers who pop in just for the popcorn, sans the feature flick...it's that good! If you have a sweet tooth, you can also pick up your favorite candy or an ice-cold soda. (I hear they have THE BEST crushed ice!)
4. Family Friendly Flicks
There will be no fighting over which movie to see in this one-screen venue! But rest assured, The Royal Theater carefully selects first-run, family-friendly and faith-based movies that appeal to audiences of all ages.
Each movie typically runs for one weekend, with showtimes Friday and Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. Check the website to find out what is currently playing and coming soon as well as exact showtimes.
5. Support Local
The Royal Theater is the epitome of a small, local business, with owners who are passionate about preserving the theater's history and giving back to the community. With a small staff recruited (rather than hired) by Sharon, moviegoers are guaranteed friendly service and eat-off-of-the-floor level of cleanliness.
On your next visit to The Royal Theater, you can support more Hendricks County small businesses and create unique memories with dinner at The Mayberry Cafe or Frank's Place. Or shop for unique finds at Forget-Me-Knots or Seize the Night Designs.
More Information & Showtimes
Check the website or follow The Royal Theater on Facebook or Instagram for more information and showtimes.
The theater also serves as a unique rental venue, hosting private and community events, including weddings, funerals, birthday parties, fundraisers and more.
