Lexington’s iconic downtown theater, the Kentucky Theater, turned 100 years old Tuesday. This Saturday marks the first in a series of weekend events in October to recognize that entertainment heritage.
What is it that makes the large ornate auditorium in the Kentucky theater an attractive place for a movie and popcorn?
“You know the way I’ve always felt that this is the way that movies were meant to be seen,” said Mills.
Words from theater manager Fred Mills, who’s spent more than a half-century working at the Main Street business. Hoping for another hundred years of viewing, Mills says plans call for a continuing variety of films.
“Lots of Indie films. We’re hoping to do more film festivals, but at the same time, there will be plenty of first run films as well as hopefully bringing live music back to Main Street,” said Mills.
Donna Finnie was there Wednesday with her son Michael to see one of their favorites, “Lord of the Rings.” She first came to the Kentucky at 14, some 46 years ago.
“All the old décor and the stained glass window that’s in the ceiling and the curtains….it’s just unbelievably beautiful,” said Finnie.
The month-long celebration kicks off with a higher-ticket Gala and lower-ticket shindig in unison Saturday night. With a 1920’s horror classic and special music to come, the birthday bash ends with two more showings of the Rocky Horror Picture Show.