Danville's Royal Theater is exactly what you'd expect as a historic, single-screen theater nestled intimately directly on Danville, Indiana's town square.
With ticket prices well under usual chain prices, including first-run such as the current Lilo & Stitch, Royal Theater offers moviegoers a classic movie experience with the benefit of also being able to book both classics, first-run, and a family film series.
Royal Theater was first built in 1914 and was Danville's first movie theater. It was bought in 1926 by Thomas Barrett. Barrett razed two buildings to the side of the theater and expanded the "photoplay parlor" in a Tudor Revival style. Barrett himself was from England and this definitely made sense. It re-opened in 1927 with a 600-seat capacity. It also had a pipe organ, lighted marquee, and stage.
The Royal today maintains its 1920s appearance. It's a theater that really leans into its nostalgia and I personally smile every time I pass by it.
The Royal hosts a free family film festival during the Summer. It's on Wednesdays at 10am. This year's schedule includes:
June 4th ~ Kung Fu Panda 4
June 11th ~ IF
June 18th The Garfield Movie
June 25th ~ Despicable Me 4
July 2nd ~ Harold and The Purple Crayon
July 9th ~ The Wild Robot
July 16th ~ Hitpig
July 23rd ~ Sonic the Hedgehog 3
Is accessibility perfect here? Of course not. This is a historic movie theater, though I've found it better than expected. While some buildings on the town square are definitely not accessible (my guess is 1/2 the stores on Danville's town square have a step into them), several key ones are including the Royal.
This is still a single-screen theater. Tickets and concessions are affordable. The theater can be rented (my understanding is the owner is pretty selective, though I've not experienced this side of the theater). While Avon has chain moviegoing experiences, and they're fine, for true cineastes this is practically a must-attend theater. They typically do an evening screening (definitely not an all-day theater). They do occasionally host concerts and events, as well. I should also note that parking around the square is free with a two-hour time limit (five hours for disabled placard parking spots).
If you go to the Royal, dial down the expectations and have fun. These are friendly people with a good (not great) screen and a casual approach that is perfect for this small town indie theater. The theater itself is attractive, well-kept, and prices are great. This may not be quite a destination spot, however, Danville is for sure worth a daytrip. The Mayberry Cafe (think Andy Griffith Show-themed) is within walking distance, Danville Dips is around the corner, the Authors' Patch Bookstore is also around the corner, and this small town's charm is abundant. read more