THE MOVIE theater can be a magical place. One of my fondest cinematic memories is being 8 years old and going to see the Rocketeer in 1991. The theater was packed with no seats left, and my sister and I sat on the floor and watched in pure fascination as Bill Campbell strapped on his metallic rocket contraption and blasted into the air on the big screen. I can still smell the popcorn and hear the other kids gasping in excitement, just as I did.
Most of us have enjoyed great cinematic experiences, such as going on a date, celebrating a birthday, or even being the first in line and getting that ticket to a long-awaited film. While streaming may offer the convenience of watching a movie from the comfort of our home, one can never truly replicate or replace the one-of-a-kind magical experience of the theater.
One place that has been offering this magical experience for the past 73 years is The Oldham Theater. Now owned by Ray and Beth Ann Rhoton, the theater has undergone numerous renovations over the years to move into the 21st century while preserving the nostalgic 1950s feel that has made it a downtown staple.
HISTORY OF THE OLDHAM
George Oldham purchased the theater in 1949 to replace The Rivoli Theater, located on the south side of the square. The theater was named after Oldham following his death that same year.
Located in the heart of downtown Winchester, the theater opened its doors on Sept.15, 1950, airing the film “And Baby Makes Three,” starring Robert Young and Barbara Hale.
In 1994, Rhonda Acklen took over ownership and made several improvements, such as transforming the upstairs balcony into a second theater.
In 2000, Acklen sold the theater to Ray and Beth Ann Rhoton. The Rhotons made further improvements in 2009, including incorporating digital projection equipment, installing surround sound, new curtains, and new seats.
PRESERVATION AND MODERNIZATION
According to the Rhotons’ daughter, Montana Medina, since purchasing the theater 23 years ago, the family has worked tirelessly to preserve the historical integrity of the building while offering their customers the latest in cinematic technology.
“We really tried to keep it as original as possible,” she explained. “For example, when digital came along, a lot of theaters closed down. That was something that we had to make a decision about. Do you move from the film that this theater has played for the last 60 years, and what does that look like? And it was the same with the seating. We looked at each addition and what it meant as far as the authenticity of the theater.”
Medina has a long history with theater—one that spans her entire life. Her aunt, Rhonda Acklen, owned the theater before her parents took ownership of it. She and other family members have worked almost every position at the theater. Medina said being this close to the theater has made her appreciate it more.
“It really represents the community, but it also represents family for me because my whole family has pitched in over the years, from grandparents, aunts, uncles, to cousins. For most of us, it was our first job. It has been very much a family affair.”
COME AND ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE
Medina said one of the best things about The Oldham is the experience it offers to those who step through its doors. It’s as if you’ve stepped away from everyday life.
“I can specifically remember times with my parents when we watched movies there,” she said. “The smell of the popcorn, the boxed candy that you can’t necessarily get anywhere anymore. It just kind of makes you forget about the day-today business for a few hours.”
She also added that places like these are essential in keeping that small-town feel as Winchester continues to grow and move forward.
“It’s just that small-town feel,” she said. “And with all the growth we’re having, which I think is wonderful, it’s important to remember where we came from. I think The Oldham is one of those businesses that has been around since some people’s grandparents were kids. It’s neat to be able to take their grandkids to The Oldham and let them have that same magical experience as they did. We hope that when you come to the theater, it’s a whole experience. It’s a time with your family that you’re outside your house and making the most of this amazing town and our favorite theater.” GN
