In the fall of 1999, Brian and Karlene Slover bought the North Bend Theater determined to make the 1941 art deco-era building shine again. It was closed for three months during renovations, and on Dec. 17 re-opened, complete with the restored iconic neon sign that casts a blue and red glow on the sidewalk lining Bendigo Boulevard.“Brian was a movie buff and had a passion for the theater,” said Cindy Walker, a family friend of the Slovers who bought the theater in 2006. “He wanted it to be a vibrant center of the community.”
Brian—a fixture of the community and much beloved for what he did for the theater—died just three years after the grand re-opening, but ten years later, Walker is still committed to making it a community centerpiece.
“It’s been great. One of the things that we really enjoy about it is that it gives an opportunity to get involved in the community,” Walker said. “We feel like we’re bringing a good service to the community, it’s been very rewarding. We have a good time with it.”
Walker involves the community by using the theater to host fundraising events, like the recent Cans Film Festival—a play off the elite Cannes competition—where admission to the night’s movie was free when patrons brought a canned food item to benefit Encompass’ holiday giving drive.
A similar event will take place on Dec. 16, when movie-goers can watch “Miracle on 34th Street” for free with a donation of a toy for Toys for Tots.
Other fundraisers have benefited North Bend schools and PTA.
“One of the things that’s really important for success is working with partners. Reaching out and finding connections is how we can survive through these tough times,” said Walker. “By partnering and working together, it makes it a little easier on everyone.”
Walker is especially proud of the Banff Film Festival that will be making a stop at the theater on Dec. 9. The festival takes its winners and highlights on the road to about 30 theaters—and this year North Bend is on the list. The three-hour showing is almost sold out, reports Walker.
Beyond the special events, Walker said that business has been fairly steady, even with the recession in full swing. The 275-seat theater usually draws about 100 people on weekends when it shows new movies.
“With the economy, people are more likely to look at things to do close to home,” said Walker. “If the kids want to see a movie, instead of driving out to Issaquah, parents are more inclined to stay here. That helps us a lot.”
Tara Ballenger: 392-6434 ext. 248 or tballenger@snovalleystar.com. Comment at www.snovalleystar.com.
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