It's the end of an era in St. Pete Beach. The marquees out front are empty and the power has already been shut off in the old St. Pete Beach Theatre. The theatre has been a staple on Corey Avenue for more than 70 years.
"I think seeing movies is best as a communal experience," Mike France, the owner said. "You can always watch those Humphrey Bogart movies, but it’s great to watch them with a crowd."
It's no secret the theatre has had financial troubles over the years. Last year, France tried making the theatre non-profit in hopes fundraising would keep it open but that didn't work. France said the theatre's old projection system was also a downfall.
"Almost every theatre that shows contemporary movies has gone digital. We've still got very old 35 millimeter equipment," France said. "And the studios just aren't striking the prints anymore."
So for now it’s all about the memories. A sign out front thanks everyone for those memories in bright red letters. Since France has owned the theatre, there have been plenty of memories he'll never forget.
"With all the special events we've done, different openings, the kids series is the greatest and just because of the history of the place," France said. "You would always get people walking up and saying you know our first date was here in 1945."
The theatre's fans hate to see it go dark after all these years.
"It's one thing if a thrift store closes its doors. It's another thing if you see a theatre that's been here so long," Don Flynn said. "It's just sad."
France said he's working on a few different scenarios to try to possibly re-open the theatre in the future. But for now the final credits have rolled on a place that's allowed the community to have a night at the movies for seven decades.