I was an owner of the Ritz from 1981-1989. We moved to Plattsmouth when I was stationed at nearby Offutt AFB. The theatre was up for sale and we learned it was the only theatre in Cass County. It was an investment/hobby for the family, and we opted to show G and PG movies. WE were opened only on week-ends and had a reduced price night on mondays.
The theatre did not have 300 seats when we owned it. More like 170 or so. The building was old and was our major expense. Upgrades were made in projection by eliminating the old carbon arcs to one projector with a xenon bulb and spliced all the reels on to one large one through a film distribution system.
We sold the Ritz in 1989. Ironically, another military local purchased it and later expanded by buying the Rex in nearby Glenwood, IA and the tri-plex in Nebraska City. Apparently, he was the last owner.
It was a great experience, but as with many small towns the audience was limited and many movie goers opted to travel to nearby Omaha to the larger venues.
Hello,
I was an owner of the Ritz from 1981-1989. We moved to Plattsmouth when I was stationed at nearby Offutt AFB. The theatre was up for sale and we learned it was the only theatre in Cass County. It was an investment/hobby for the family, and we opted to show G and PG movies. WE were opened only on week-ends and had a reduced price night on mondays.
The theatre did not have 300 seats when we owned it. More like 170 or so. The building was old and was our major expense. Upgrades were made in projection by eliminating the old carbon arcs to one projector with a xenon bulb and spliced all the reels on to one large one through a film distribution system.
We sold the Ritz in 1989. Ironically, another military local purchased it and later expanded by buying the Rex in nearby Glenwood, IA and the tri-plex in Nebraska City. Apparently, he was the last owner.
It was a great experience, but as with many small towns the audience was limited and many movie goers opted to travel to nearby Omaha to the larger venues.
Alan May
Bay Minette, AL