The Clayton Theater, located on Main Street, in Dagsboro, DE is still the only and the last remaining, first-run, single screen theater in the state of Delaware. Okay, let’s take a few steps back to explain what we mean. The property where the Clayton Theater sits was purchased by two brothers-in-law, Pete Hancock and “Skeet” Campbell in 1948, during a time when the movie industry was growing by leaps and bounds. After one year of construction, the doors to the Clayton Theater were opened on February 2nd, 1949.
The Clayton Theater had been projecting movies for more than 60 years when they, and other movie theaters in the country, were faced with a major change in the industry. Hollywood movie studios announced that by the end of 2013 they were “going digital” and would no longer make movies on 35mm film stock. This change not only consisted of a new digital projector to project films, but the Clayton Theater would have to update their ventilation system in order to make the upgrade, together costing an anticipated $80,000 – $100,000. So, theater owners, Joanne and Ed Howe, began a home-town approach to their financial situation by instituting ‘Friends of the Clayton’. They began running Clayton Classics through the week in an effort to raise funds for the new equipment. All proceeds from the Clayton Classics nights, in addition to donations collected at the door, were just enough to succeed. After just 14 months of raising funds, the Clayton Theater was able to install their new projection system and the theater was saved!
If you’ve ever been to the Clayton Theater, or a theater similar to it, then you know just how enjoyable a true movie-going experience can be. There is something that is just so nostalgic about watching a movie, new or classic, in a historical theater where it all began. From the chrome trimmed velvet seats to the velvet stanchions directing traffic in the main lobby, the Clayton Theater makes a simple trip to the movie theater a true event. This theater may look small from the outside, but rest assured that with balcony seating, there is plenty of space for enthusiastic movie-goers.
The Clayton Theater runs newly released films for a two-week period, in addition to Clayton Classics that are shown once a week. Just in time for the Halloween season, the theater is now showing Miss Peregrine’s School for Peculiar Children through November 4th and The Omen, starring Gregory Peck and Lee Remick, for one night only on October 31st. Also, be sure to check out their Special Events, which include The Rocky Horror Picture Show on October 28th – come dressed as your favorite Rocky Horror character and receive $2 off your concession purchase! For a truly charming and affordable movie experience, the Clayton Theater has our vote. Visit today and support local business!
Website | (302) 732-3744 | 33246 Main Street, Dagsboro DE
