It shouldn't be surprising for anyone who knows that I'm a film journalist that I have a special place in my heart for classic movie theatres. As a wheelchair user, this can occasionally be complicated but I nearly always consider it to be worth any extra effort needed.
This is very much the case with Fowler, Indiana's little gem of a theatres known as Fowler Theater. Originally built in 1940, this art deco theatre was rescued in 2001 by the Prairie Preservation Guild, a non-profit started with a mission of saving this once beautiful theatre that had fallen on hard times. They bought it for $30,000 and received a $2,000 grant from the Historic Landmarks Foundation and a $60,000 line of credit.
Then, they went to work.
The theatre actually opened that very year in December, though restoration has continued over the past 20 years. Detail paintings were done by David Orr of Sapphire Theatre Company out of Indy.
Like many similar theatres, when originally built Fowler Theatre was a state-of-the-art technical marvel. In fact, it was one of only five movie theatres nationwide to premiere Gone With the Wind. Unfortunately, as times changed the theatre deteriorated and ownership lacked the means and willingness to invest in its upkeep. People stopped attending due to its condition. It was when locals discovered the owner planned to completely shut it down, sell off valued vintage pieces like the marquee, and turn it into a warehouse that the town committed to a different fate for the Fowler.
These days, the movie theatre is run entirely by volunteers. Word has it that they've never failed to show a committed screening due to lack of volunteers. Think about that - in 20 years they've never failed.
They committed early on to keeping screenings affordable and family friendly. Adult tickets are $6, children under 13 are $4. Concessions range from $.50 to $5. It is worth noting that tickets are cash only.
Fowler is about 30 minutes outside Lafayette. It's a fun day trip and the town itself has quite the reputation for being haunted.
The theatre hosts a variety of screenings and events. For example, right now you can actually catch "Sing 2" at the theatre. You can rent the theatre for screenings, parties, weddings, etc. - the price is affordable at $150 plus concessions. You can also rent the marquee for $26 per day. They also offer advertising on the screen - $60/month for for-profits and $40/month for non-profits.
The Fowler Theatre has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2004. Screenings are Friday-Sunday with one evening screening each day.
The interior has art deco and art moderne elements. The marquee is still the original marquee. The original theatre could seat 442, however, current seating is 196. Around 2012, the Fowler was closed for a few months for more extensive renovations including restrooms and improved accessibility features. It's definitely a place where I feel comfortable and it's easily one of Indiana's best retro theatres. If you love classic movie theatres, a day trip to Fowler/Lafayette is a must. read more