Many individuals who grew up in Logan County from the 1930s through the 1990s have fond memories of attending movies at the Holland Theatre.
Now reborn as a nonprofit center for the performing arts, the Holland still needs a state-of-the-art movie projector to carry out its mission.
With the current projector outdated and on its last legs, the theater invites the community to a New Projector Drive, slated for 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.
All proceeds from the event will benefit the purchase a new 4K laser projector with much higher resolution and three times the brightness. The afternoon festivities include live music by the Starliners, Band of Ravens, Tom Boone, Miriam Stoner and Daniel Colalillo; live and silent auctions; and local food and drinks.
“Ever since the Holland Theatre opened in 1931, the community has lined up to see movies — and now, since the restoration, first class musical performers and local productions,” said Holland Board President Kris Swisher, who is organizing the fundraising event. “We so appreciate each and every ticket purchased and each friend who attends a show,”
“A new projector will once again allow the Holland to treat our audience members to top-quality movie events.”
She noted the Holland’s gratitude for previous community support — most recently for the campaign to re-create the theater’s grand marquee. That project was fully funded, and the marquee is under construction.
Updated equipment will expand current projector uses, such as:
• Holland Presents Free Movie Series of classic films;
• Fulfillment of artists’ requirements for projection at concerts and other events;
• Private screenings for employee appreciation and business events; and
• Collaborations with organizations such as RTC, the Logan County Sheriff’s Office, and Bellefontaine Intermediate School to show movies for their clients, students and the larger community.
With a new projector, the Holland also envisions:
• Community watch parties for away OSU football games;
• Premieres of locally produced films;
• More movies, and perhaps a chance to re-live a childhood memory or a special date at the Holland; and
• More opportunities for partner nonprofits to bring the magic of movies at the Holland to the next generation.
A ticket for floor-level seating at the drive is $50 and includes wine, soft drinks, refreshments, and a raffle ticket. A balcony seat is $25 and includes a raffle ticket.
Live auction items include one-week hotel stays in New York, Orlando, or Nashville; an overnight stay at The Flats in Bellefontaine, plus a show at the Holland and bottle of champagne; original art from Columbus-based painter Mac Worthington; and a private screening at the Holland of the film of the winner’s choice.
Silent auction items include movie memorabilia from the Holland’s past, including framed publicity photos from classic films; an original Star Wars promotion T-shirt; and movie posters, plus OSU items, golf rounds, liquor, gift cards and items from local businesses and restaurants, and more.
Several gift baskets will be raffled, and the winner of the ongoing “Whiskey Wheelbarrow” raffle will be announced.
Tickets are available online at TheHolland.org, by phone at 937-592-9002, or in person at the box office, 127 E. Columbus Ave. Box office hours are Tuesday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursday and Friday 1 to 5 p.m.
Those who wish to donated but are unable to make the event may call or email the Holland, office, for instructions.