Cinema 5
116 Heister Street,
State College,
PA
16803
116 Heister Street,
State College,
PA
16803
1 person
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State College, PA is one of the best places to live in the east. I spent many happy years in “Happy Valley†operating theatres in Central PA. Hearing of the closing of the Cinema 6 is like hearing of the passing of an old friend.
When the “Cinemas†opened in the late 60’s, State College became a six screen town plus an additional pair of drive-in screens, Starlight D/I and Temple D/I. The indoor venues included the venerable Cathaum, State, Nittnay/Garden, and Twelvetrees/Flick. The Cinema One and Two was the first twin theatre to be built as a true multiplex in PA. It was originally design to be a “roadshow†theatre and a conventional screen with an opera drape type front curtain. Cinema one seated 1100 and Cinema Two accommodated 500. John “Jack Hogan and Merle Baker were the two main projectionist from the opening until Mr. Hogan unexpectedly died a couple years ago. Both auditoriums used shag carpeting for wall coverings and sound dampening. Cinema one had a few “lovers’ seats†which were big enough for two people to share.
Cinema 1 and 2 was originally supposed to be a Stanley Warner house; but was actually opened by Associated (Stern) Theatres of Pittsburgh. I took over management of the Cinemas and Flick in 1969 while supervising three theatres in Altoona and the first theatre I owned in Milton, PA.
A dozen people were trained at the Cinemas to become managers of Associated Theatres in the Pittsburgh. Others started their career at the Cinemas and went on to become manager/operators and union stage workers.
The Cinemas were noted for “old school†showmanship and promotions. One of my favorites was the “Diamonds Are Forever†release. Patrons were greeted by 007 music under the marquee and special marquee art work. A beautiful young lady in seductive “Bond-girl†attire greeted all patrons while a seemingly armed guard stood watch over a display of what was advertised as the “Worlds Largest Gems.†Lucky popcorn boxes contained coupons for small prizes. One box contained a real 1 ½ carat diamond! Yep, those were the days…for me at least.
More about State College theatres at another time.
Jack Oberleitner