PrewittHistory

=Prewitt Theater History=

//Photograph is courtesy of the [|Guilford Township Historical Collection, Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library]//

The Prewitt Theater was built in 1927 by local businessman L. W. Prewitt on the site of his motor salesroom in [|Plainfield, Indiana]. Prewitt relocated the motor company to a new location and operated both ventures successfully. Prewitt prided himself on the construction of the new movie theater and ensured every comfort for its patrons. The theater, which held 450 guests, featured upholstered spring cushioned seats, a California type [|loge], the best projection equiment, and a large modern stage. Local residents were hired to construct the building and also provided live music at the theater. The theater promised patrons of "photoplays and entertainment of the highest quality--the finer pictures, clean and wholesome". Prices for movies were advertised as 12 cents for children under twelve, 15 cents for adults, and 35 cents for loge seating. In 1949, a record attendance at the movie theater was broken when the film "Johnny Holiday" was shown. The movie was very popular since it was filmed at the Indiana Boys School in Plainfield. The movie also included many local residents in the filming of the movie who appeared in the crowd scenes.

The Prewitt Theater's promise of "The Finer Pictures, Better Music, In Greater Comfort" died in 1970. Poor attendance caused the theater to close and it was reopened as the Cinema West. New owners decided a different direction for the movie house was needed to attract new patrons. The theater became an "adults only" movie theater. The marquee, which advertised "Fine Arts for Adults Only", sparked controversy in the Quaker community. The new owners eventually failed to bring in new patrons to the movie theatre.

During the late 1980's-early '90's the Prewitt was known as the Village Theater and was a popular hang-out on weekends for teenagers. I knew a few people who worked the ticket office and concession stands and I remember going to see movies there because it was cheaper than going into Indianapolis. - //Laina Ridenour//

References: Plainfield Messenger March 10, 1927 Plainfield Messenger March 24, 1927 The Indianapolis News, April 3, 1970 Movie advertisement for the Prewitt Theater, Plainfield Messenger, March 8, 1928.

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