The operator of the historic North Park Theatre in Buffalo says it will cease operating the Hertel Avenue cinema as of June 6. But the theatre may not be closed for very long. Ray Barker, assistant manager of the North Park, tells WBFO News a local group is looking to take over the landmark theatre.
"We have a group of investors who are interested in upgrading and modernizing the theatre, bringing in digital projection [and] new carpeting, and adding to our historic ambience," Barker says.
Barker, who has been associated with the North Park for 20 years, says an announcement will be made "in due course." Once that happens, he estimates the theatre will be closed for at least a month for renovation work and the theatre could re-open later this summer.
Barker says other than a new sound system, Dipson has made little investment in the North Park in the past two decades. He says the company has not converted the single-screen theatre from 35mm film to digital projection as it has in many of its other theatres, a switch he says is necessary for survival in modern cinema.
"In order to show movies, we have to make that digital conversion, as well" Barker says. "If Dipson is unwilling to upgrade us to digital projection, then we have to find a way to do that in order to stay in business, and I think we have a clear plan to do that."
Barker likens the situation to the near demolition of Shea's Performing Arts Center in the mid-80s. He says the theatre will remain committed to showing independent and foreign language films, with hopes of branching out into the live performance arena, as well.
"People love historical feel of the theatre, but there are some things that we would like to do to enhance the experience for our customers. Dipson may be making a business decision, but I think the future of the theatre and the neighborhood is bright. There is a commitment by our ownership group to continue the North Park as a crown jewel for North Buffalo for many, many years to come," Barker says.
The North Park opened in 1920. It was originally part of the now-defunct Shea's theatre chain. In 1998, it hosted Hollywood stars with the world premiere of Vincent Gallo's film 'Buffalo '66.'
North Park is one of eight theatres Dipson operates in Western New York. The company today thanked its patrons for their "support and dedication over the years."
A call seeking comment from Dipson President Michael Clement was not returned at press time.
