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I am helping an individual develop a business plan for starting up a theater in a small community (7500) in rural Minnesota. The town has a movie theater that is very run down and with no sign of improvement in the future. The location and space is such that it would not make sense purchase the existing and renovate. I have managed a Cinema years ago so I understand the nuts and bolts of the operation but need help in the development, design, and construction of converting an existing retail building into a theater. Also, it seems that digital projection is the way things are going now. Is this true? It seems worth the investment considering the possibilities with digital vs 35mm. Suggestions?? Anyway, I am looking for references for companies that would manage such a project and help with design layout and construction costs etc.

We have used International Cinema Equipment in Miami. They are quite good.
If you need anything else let us know on here or contact me on email.

We have significant experience converting existing retail space into new movie theaters. Send me your contact information and I will forward you examples of our completed projects as well as an article we wrote, published last year in Film Journal Magazine, which specifically addresses the conversion of existing retail space into movie theaters.

Bright Star Systems, Minneapolis, MN 1-952-926-2009
Talk to Mel Hopland or Mike Granger

Eventually all theatres will probably go digital but film will be with us for a long time. So I would suggest you go with film equipment. ICECO is a good suggestion. There prices are very good and they seem to have more used/re-conditioned equipment than just about anyone else. If your friend is going to need a manager/projectionist please contact me. I am looking to re-locate to the upper Midwest.