SPRINGFIELD — The Mars Theatre has reached the five-year mark.
To celebrate the occasion, it will offer discounted tickets Thursday and Friday to see “The Wizard of Oz.” The movie will start at 7 p.m. both days and all tickets will cost $5.
“This year marks the 80th anniversary of the classic movie and what better way to celebrate than to see it in a historical theatre like The Mars,” said Allison Newberry, theatre director.
A lot has happened at the Mars Theatre since it reopened its doors in 2014. More than 67,000 tickets have been sold for movies, more than 31,000 tubs of popcorn have been consumed, 87 different musical talents have taken the stage and guests from as far away as Anchorage Alaska, have come through the doors.
In addition, an expansion project completed last year provides dressing rooms, handicap accessibility to the stage and much-needed storage space.
After a minor setback with the projector recently, movies are back up and running at the theatre.
“We are seeing a lot of new faces at the Mars and people seem pleasantly surprised when they get here,” Newberry said. “Affordable movies and concessions, along with quality entertainment, are why many people keep coming back.”
The popular kids' movie series “Two for Tuesdays” will return June 4 for eight weeks. Show times will be 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Movies aren’t the only thing attracting people to the theatre. The Mars has welcomed musical acts who perform everything from bluegrass and southern rock to gospel, Motown and country.
“We have had sell-out shows for Motown favorites the Drifters and the Platters, country legends John Anderson, John Conlee and John Barry, and several tribute shows,” Newberry said.
Looking back on the success of the past five years, Newberry is excited about the upcoming events planned for the remainder of 2019.
“We have a few crowd favorites returning mixed with a few new shows,” she said.
A gospel sing night is planned for July 26 featuring The Perrys and opening act King’s Cross. Conlee will make another appearance for a matinee show August 4and Collin Raye will return with a few friends Sept. 28.
Holiday-themed shows include the cast from “LIVE from WVL Radio Theatre” returning Oct. 26 for their Halloween play entitled “The Headless Hessian of Sleepy Hollow and Other American Horror Stories.” Also, plan to get into the Christmas spirit with Silver Bells and The Diamonds on Dec. 7.
Newberry said, “There may be a few more surprises added to the schedule, so check our website and follow us on Facebook to make sure you don’t miss anything.”
She added, “Plans are already being made for 2020 with a few unique acts being scheduled.”
Newberry thanked a group of businesses and individuals known as the Friends of the Mars.
“The number of our sponsors has increased each year and, because of their support, we have been able to bring more well-known live events to the theater,” she said.
There are unique benefits that sponsorships allow such as recognition on the screen before every movie, sponsoring a live event or blockbuster movie premiere, tickets, gift cards, movie passes and concession vouchers.
For more information about Mars movies and live events or to purchase advance tickets, visit www.marstheatre.com.
