Arlee re-creates 1936 Opening Night with nearly every seat filled

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[April 22, 2015]  MASON CITY - Nearly every seat was filled when approximately 290 people participated in the re-creation of the 1936 Arlee Theater opening night photo at the Mason City theater’s reopening celebration April 11.

The public was invited to view the restored neon and seats as well as a free showing of “Wizard of Oz.” To top it off, an anonymous donor provided free popcorn for all.

Among the notable attendees were Laura Lee “Babe” Zimmerman, who was in the original opening night photo, long-time Arlee assistant manager/usher/projectionist Dale Fancher and his wife Ollie, several other past Arlee employees, Illinois State Senator Darin LaHood and a row of MCHS chums from the 1960’s who giggled and carried on about not getting separated or kicked out this time.

“There was a lot of happy reminiscing,” said Gaye Maxson of the Arlee. “People have been very pleased with the nice seats. They have more leg room and we installed some wider seats for added comfort.”

The project is not entirely paid for, and fundraising for the seats is ongoing.

[Gaye Maxson, Arlee Theater]

 

 

 

 

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