I worked at the Syosset Theater while in college during the early 1960’s and it was one of the great experiences of my life. It operated as a reserved-seat house, with advance reservations available, and the films would play for several months at a time. By the time “La Dolce Vita” ended its run, I think I was able to speak Italian! When “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World” was ready to open, Stanley Kramer came out personally to check all of the technical conditions. “How the West Was Won” and “Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm” both played and they also brought back all of the classic early Cinerama films. The screen was magnificent and the three projection booths had been built as part of the original structure. We presented each showing as if it was a Broadway show. I worked at various times as a ticket taker, usher and reservations clerk and even ran the candy stand. I had to wear a tuxedo and the theater’s manager always wore a suit and tie. Boy, have times changed!
I worked at the Syosset Theater while in college during the early 1960’s and it was one of the great experiences of my life. It operated as a reserved-seat house, with advance reservations available, and the films would play for several months at a time. By the time “La Dolce Vita” ended its run, I think I was able to speak Italian! When “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World” was ready to open, Stanley Kramer came out personally to check all of the technical conditions. “How the West Was Won” and “Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm” both played and they also brought back all of the classic early Cinerama films. The screen was magnificent and the three projection booths had been built as part of the original structure. We presented each showing as if it was a Broadway show. I worked at various times as a ticket taker, usher and reservations clerk and even ran the candy stand. I had to wear a tuxedo and the theater’s manager always wore a suit and tie. Boy, have times changed!