It always bums me out to see legendary local establishments close. Like many others, I was sad to hear that Manteo's Historic Pioneer Theatre was closing. Now, it looks like there will be a happy ending after all. I am delighted to announce that the theatre has been saved!
Photo from https://www.facebook.com/PioneerManteo/photos
Back in December, it was announced that Manteo's historic Pioneer Theatre would be closing its doors. The closure was attributed to decreasing attendance, increasing expenses, and changes in the theater industry. The theatre had been in operation for 105 years, making it one of the longest running family-owned movie theaters in the entire country. Tickets were affordable, and the popcorn was still made with love. It was an awesome place to see movies. The closure devastated community members, many of whom came forward online to share their memories and stories of the theatre.
Photo from https://www.facebook.com/PioneerManteo/photos
January was a month of mourning. Then, in February, it was announced that a new owner had purchased the theatre in order to restore and reopen the theatre! The new owner promises to preserve the legacy of the legendary theater. After it reopens, the Pioneer will still mostly show movies, but will also host other events such as comedy shows.
For more on this story, see: https://www.wavy.com/news/north-carolina/obx/105-year-old-outer-banks-theater-to-be-reopened-restored-under-new-owners/
To track the Pioneer Theatre's progress, see: https://www.facebook.com/PioneerManteo/
Are you excited for the reopening of Pioneer Theatre? We sure are!
