NEWBERRY, S.C. — The MTD Arthouse Theater, a small independent movie theater in Newberry is in need of some help.
Named after her late husband, a film lover, Michele Gangale says MTD Arthouse has been open a little over a year. But, she explains, there have been instances in these past several months that she's almost had to close their doors because of not seeing enough business.
"A lot of people don’t realize how thriving the film community is outside of Hollywood. There is so much out there that just doesn’t get the play and the love that it deserves," Gangale said.
Gangale adds she knows people in Chapin, Newberry, and Laurens are always asking about entertainment options on community Facebook groups, so she knows there's a need for her theater.
"The help that we need is just come on in, see what we have, watch the films, just come and enjoy. And I want to see this theater grow and thrive. We have plans of putting in an arcade here, we want to upgrade our seating at some point and do some fun things like that that just make this place even more enjoyable than it is already," Gangale said.
The MTD Arthouse Theater, unlike big names like AMC or Regal, offers blankets, unique concession items and chances to meet the actors, writers and directors of the films being shown. Last month the venue screened the psychological thriller "The One That Got Away," with a meet-and-greet with the movie's director.
Their concession stand was donated by a local business, the theater's curtains were also donated, and so was a triangle stand outside of the theater.
As the theater grows with more attendees, Gangale said they can add newer, more popular films in the rotation, but they have to have the funds for it. This weekend (June 14, 15), MTD Arthouse will screen "Wholesome Grove," selected as Best Feature at the Redwood Film Festival.
For a list of upcoming showings at the theater, click here.
