Crescent Theater in trouble

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - If you travel down Dauphin Street in Mobile, you’re sure to find some history and one of the businesses that plays a part in the city’s history is The Crescent Theater.

Photos: The Crescent Theater

Owner and operator Max Morey said the theater originally opened in 1885 and was used for plays. In the 1920s when films started coming around, the then owner converted it into a movie theater.

Since then, many businesses have come and gone from the location on Dauphin Street.

Now, the Crescent Theater is back. This time, the theater shows independent films, locally-produced cinemas and live performances. It also has a unique flare to it with leather recliners and wine and beer available to drink. The business, however, will close soon if it doesn’t switch from film to digital format.  

“For the last 100 years, every movie theater in the world, every county, every culture, we all appreciate films. And we have been watching them on 35 millimeter film, actual film; but it’s all over. Every 35 mm projector is going to go. They’re not going to make any more films,” Morey said.

He said the conversion from film to digital format is affecting over 500 different single-screen art houses in America.

The problem is, the conversion cost between $75,000 and $100,000.

“We don’t have that kind of money. We can’t borrow it, and we will never be able to pay it back. So were looking for our community to help buy that projector for us though a kick starter program,” Morey said.

If the theater doesn’t raise more than $75,000 in 60 days, it will close. Morey said that’s going to hurt him as well as many other downtown businesses.

“A lot of people are dining downtown before the movie or after so the waitresses and waiters are happy, the owners are happy, and of course were happy. We feel we are an important part of success in downtown,” said Morey.

He said the kickstarter campaign launches Tuesday and that’s how you can donate.

Morey also said he plans to donate the film project he is currently using. For more information on The Crescent Theater and shows that are currently playing, click here.