Theatre helping with Franklin resurgence

FRANKLIN, Ind. (WISH) – The Artcraft Theatre was built in 1922 and nearly 100 years later it’s still standing. 

Over the weekend, two more classic movies will be playing there, “Bedknobs and Broomsticks” and Sunday “Sister Sct.”

The theatre was made for the silent movie era and a vaudeville house. It even has an orchestra pit and full stage with dressing rooms below. It was renovated in 1936. It was in 1948 when the classic Art Deco streamlining and neon was added.  

The Artcraft Theatre remains one of the most intact Art Deco movie houses in central Indiana and is listed on the Indiana State Register of Historic Places.

Franklin Heritage stepped in and saved it, spending millions on renovations. For the past few years, there has once again a resurgence of excitement surrounding the theatre. During the Christmas holiday, movies like “National Lampoons Christmas Vacation” are always sold out. 

Before every show, they run a film showing the national anthem and often mix in an old Looney Tunes cartoon or a newsreel from long ago.  All of it is authentic to the old building. The Theatre runs dozens of movies a year and holds special events.

It hosts school groups, senior citizens, and fundraisers for community organizations.  Much of the money earned goes right back into the theatre. If you’d like to learn more, click here.