The Gaiety Theatre - Ronan, Montana
Posted by: Groundspeak Premium Member T0SHEA
N 47° 31.728 W 114° 06.221
11T E 718003 N 5267996
A movie theatre since 1917, or shortly thereafter, this must be the oldest running theatre in Lake County.
Waymark Code: WM107ZJ
Location: Montana, United States
Date Posted: 03/17/2019
Published By:Groundspeak Premium Member Geojeepsters
Views: 2

The building has a brown terra cotta plaque at the parapet holding the date of construction of the building, 1917. To our knowledge the building has always been home to either the Gaiety of the entertainer Theatre. The earliest reference to the theatre that was found was this one from November of 1917, advertising a recital at the theatre.
The pupils of the Mission Valley Conservatory, under the direction of Mrs. Dorothea V. Stillman. assisted by interested friends, will give a public recital at the Gaiety theatre in Ronan, on the evening of December 14th at 8:30, the proceeds of which will go to the Patriotic League of Ronan.
From the Ronan pioneer, November 30, 1917, page 8
PIC The news article below describes the Gaiety Theatre's conversion to "Talkies" in October of 1930. The advertisement to the right accompanied that article on page 36 of the October 30, 1930 issue of the Flathead Courier.

It continued to operate as the Gaiety Theatre until the building was remodeled in 1989 and renamed the Entertainer Cinema upon reopening. Seating 400 when built, the theatre today seats 128. It has recently made the costly conversion to digital projection with 5.1 Dolby sound.

It would be interesting to see what the theatre looked like prior to 1989, as is certainly doesn't resemble a pre 1920 theatre now. All white stucco on the front with brick trim, the stepped parapet with low gables, one in the centre and one each end, and brick corbeling at the cornice could be original. The flush entrance would have been unusual in 1917, were it actually like that when built.
A Modern Theatre, Talkies At Ronan;
Valley Likes Bills
October 30, 1930 | The Flathead Courier
In the group cut of the many fine business establishments, modern and up-to-date buildings, residences, high school building, etc., is also shown the fine theatre building at Ronan, the Gaiety theatre. This is one of the favorite amusement places of the Lower Flathead valley and is patronized by people from near and far. Good roads lead to Ronan and a popular amusement place is the Gaiety theatre.

About two months ago the talkie machinery, giving the public the latest and the best in the talkie field, was installed. Since then the theatre has played to crowded houses. The building and equipment is a credit to the city and the valley. The show house has a seating capacity of over 400 and everything is arranged for comfort and convenience of the patrons.

The business is owned, conducted and personally supervised by a live-wire young man who well knows the business and the wants of the patrons, Mr. Charles Dishman, who is well known here and who has lived most of his life in the valley. He formerly lived in St. Ignatius.

Mr. Dishrnan is planning special features for November and the December holiday season which will attract you. See advertisement for features shown this date and for the coming week. Another good booster for Ronan and Lake county who should have your patronage. Watch him grow with the Gaiety theatre, Ronan and all Lake county.

Especially attractive bills have been arranged for this week which are listed In the display advertisement. Foremost among these is John McCormick in "Song 0' My Heart," the play and voice that has thrilled two continents. See advertisement for date. Don't miss it. And on November 1 you will see one of the greatest musical comedies ever produced, "Chasing Rainbows," with Bessie Love and Charles King playing the leads.
From the Flathead Courier
Name of publication (required):
The Flathead Courier


Date of Publication (required):
October 30, 1930


Does the ad identify the location of the company?: no

Web URL to additional proof of location or additional information.: [Web Link]

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