Historical Orpheum Theatre Celebrates Film Anniversaries with Timeless Movie Series
How a Wichita, KS theater found money-making success simply by filling a gap in its community’s entertainment.
Located in the heart of downtown Wichita, Kansas, the Orpheum Theatre has the honor of being the first atmospheric theater in the U.S. and the oldest one still standing. But the theater doesn’t just represent a piece of history – it celebrates it. Since 2006, the theater has programmed an Anniversary Film Series year-after-year to great success.
What started with the realization that there was a need for classic film showings in the community has grown over the years to be a consistent money maker for the historic venue – especially since they still have the market cornered on classic film showings in Kansas’ largest city. This year’s lineup includes throwback favorites like “North By Northwest,” “The Wild Bunch,” “Easy Rider,” Dead Poet’s Society” and more. But what makes their annual series such a success? If you ask Barney Byard, the theatre’s director, he’d give a few reasons. His main one? Consistency.
The series always runs on the third Thursday of each month. So if a community member is looking for something to do, or if they’re wondering if they’re free that third Thursday in June, they know that’s the night they’re heading to the Orpheum Theatre for one of their favorite low-cost events.
"Commit to it for the long-haul, be patient and be consistent." Barney Byard, Orpheum Theatre Director
The theatre also runs a promo each December for 2 for 1 tickets for the following year’s series – a consistent promotion that's received great responses. Plus, the theatre’s programmers are very cognizant of picking “a good array of titles, but not too esoteric with the selections,” according to Byard.
Looking to start your own classic film series? Byard best advice is to, “commit to it for the long-haul, be patient and be consistent.” Additionally, the theatre has recently started thinking of ways to add to the patron experience. For instance, signature drinks at the bar that play off the film, pre-show activities that engage and even pre-show music that works with the theme or era of the screening.
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Swank Tip: Always check with your Swank rep to ensure a title’s availability!