Getting the money to start a theatre? Great question! If possible....make an agreement to lease the theatre with an option to buy. Make sure the price is agreed upon up front, so that after you work hard and make a success of the theatre while leasing,you don't have to pay a higher price based on your success.
If it is an older theatre or in a smaller market,it may not be that easy for the owner to sell. You may be his only hope, and he may therefore be willing to hold the mortgage
to unload it. It would be a great retirement income for him where he would reap the benefit of the interest income as well as the principal. It would also create an income for his heirs after his departure as well, should he die before the mortgage is paid off.
If the theatre is located in a designated historic area or a blighted area, state or federal monies may be available at low interest rates. The SBA should be investigated, but usually only after you have been turned down elsewhere.
If you are a woman or minority, there are federal assistance programs available. For any or all of these, check with your state and federal elected officials office.
I know things have changed...when I started out 35 years ago, I leased a theatre from an elderly gentleman for $100.00 a month including heat, water & sewer fee, and didn't have to pay any rent until after I opened so that I'd have some cash flow to get started. I owe that man a lot. I wonder if there are any like him still around?
Good luck.
Forums 
