Exhibitors Herald (Jul-Sep 1922)

THEATRE EQUIPMENT Town of 400 Has Modern Playhouse Which Seats 325 In size only are theatres being erected in smaller cities differing from the motion picture palaces of the larger cities. Evidence of this is borne out in photographs of a number of small theatres published in this department in recent issues. This week we present the Mars theatre, at Snyder, Nebraska, which is owned by Herb Engelbrecht. The Mars was erected in May, 1921, and has a seating capacity of 325 in a city which boasts only a population of 400. Mr. Engelbrecht. Mars theatre, Snyder, Neb. reports, however, that he draws much patronage from the surrounding country and his field of activity probably takes in 900 persons. The Mars was built at a cost of $20.000. It is of stucco and cement, and. while not elaborate in its appointments, it lacks nothing in features that spell comfort and modernncss. Of special interest in connection with the Mars is the cooling and ventilating system used. The air is taken in through the basement and is cooled by passing over ice before entering the auditorium for circulation. This assures Mr. Engelbrecht a cool and well aired theatre in the warmest weather. The theatre has up-to-date equipment, including such things as an asbestos booth, Powers 6B projectors, Holburg generator set, gold fibre screen, and a stage with curtains and wings, as well as dressing rooms in the rear. The lobby is 26 by 12 feet. A pianola and orchestra furnish the music. Port Huron's New Playhouse Ranks With Michigan's Finest The new Desmond theatre at Port Huron, Michigan, which opened its doors last month, is another monument to the motion picture, typical of the many fine theatres of the new order which have recently opened in various parts of the country. It is the largest theatre in Port Hu-' ron and takes its place with the finest that the state boasts. Herbert L. Weil is managing director. H. L. Weil Seats 1,320 The Desmond seats 1,320. The auditorium has been arranged so that there is an unobstructed view of the stage from every seat, by getting width to the building as well as depth, and eliminating posts. Entrance to the theatre is gained from Military street through a beautiful lobby. The exit ways lead to Eourth street, so that those entering the house need not pass those coming out. On the lower floor is the retiring room for women, which has been artistically furnished and equipped with every convenience. There is also a retiring room for men on this floor. Ventilation a Feature One of the features of the Desmond theatre of which its officers are especially proud is the ventilating system, designed by Ray Wilde. Through the system installed, the air in the theatre is changed every few minutes. After being reduced to the proper temperature and relieved of moisture, it is forced into chambers that completely undermine the auditorium. From here it is carried through ventilators installed at frequent intervals. In summer months a cool and invigorating temperature will be maintained, and in the winter an even degree of temperature, all of which is regulated automatically by a thermostatic control system. Simplicity and a restful atmosphere are outstanding features of the auditorium, which is equipped with comfortable air-cushioned chairs. Music is furnished by large organ built by Hill-Green, Lane & Company of Alliance, O. Children's Shows Popular Complete equipment has been installed in the projection department by Service Theatre Supply Company of Detroit. Powers projectors are used, and other equipment includes a transverter, Peerless arc control, Hulett reel and alarm and a Gardiner gold fibre screen. Of special interest are the Saturday morning shows for children which have been inaugurated by Managing Director Weil. These start at 10 o'clock and, as is apparent from the photograph published below, they arc proving decidedly popular among the juveniles. Francis Sells Crystal William Francis has sold the Crystal theatre at Portland, Ind., to J. S. Hines, owner of the Princess theatre at Hope, Indiana. Mr. Francis will make his home in California. Steel Men to Meet Engineers of the iron and steel industry are holding a convention the week of September 11 to 15 at the Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, Ohio. THE NEW DESMOND theatre at Port Huron, Michigan, which has recently been completed and opened. Notice the line-up of children waiting admission, to one of the Saturday morning performances inaugurated by Herbert L. Weil, managing director. The Desmond seats 1,320.