Center Theatre installs digital projector

    DOVER-FOXCROFT — The Center Theatre for the Performing Arts announces the successful installation of its new digital projector, and upgrade to the latest in movie technology.
    “We knew the digital picture would be cleaner and crisper than the 35 mm film, but we really had no idea how much better until it was installed,” says Executive Director Angela Bonacasa. “The entire viewing experience, from the quality of the picture to the digital sound, is like night and day from our previous system.”

    The entire upgrade, including the new Solaria One projector, installation, training and electrical work, cost approximately $48,000, and came in under the expected budget of $55,000. Although the projector has been purchased and installed, Bonacasa points out that the drive to fund the projector continues. “Through a combination of grants, fundraisers, and the incredible generosity of Center Theatre patrons, we have already raised $30,000 toward the new projector. Although it was our hope to have the entire projector paid in full before installation, we felt that waiting and possibly losing the ability to show movies, even for a short time, was unacceptable. We have secured a loan to finance the remaining $18,000, but we consider it a stop-gap measure. We are continuing to solicit donations and apply for grants, and hope to have the remainder paid off by the end of the year-earlier if possible. ”
    The first digital movie shown at the Center Theatre will be the new animated film “The Croods” beginning Friday, April 12, continuing through school vacation with evening and matinee showings.
    “We hope that the community will come out and celebrate with us,” adds Bonacasa. “This digital projector would not have been possible without the incredible generosity of the community. With so many small theatres losing funding or going out of business, a purchase like this really demonstrates how a supportive community can make amazing things happen.”
    To learn more about upcoming events at Center Theatre, please call the box office at 564-8943 or visit the theatre’s website at www.centertheatre.org.