Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
NEWTON, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — The curtain is closing on this era of the historic West Newton Cinema. The theater has been around for 85 years, and owner David Bramante has been operating it since 1978.
The cinema says it has reached a deal to sell the property on Washington Street to Mark Development. The theater will remain open under the family's management for up to two years. After that, Bramante said the cinema will need a new operator.
He says he's in the early stages of planning a non-profit to take control of the theater's operations.
"I think that's the most feasible way to have a future for this building, 'future' meaning the next 20 to 50 years," he said.
Bramante wants the theater to stay open to host community and school events, and support local filmmakers.
In a statement, he said the "West Newton Cinema has been more than a business for me, my brother and our families...Our theater has been the setting for countless memories and special moments."
Bramante said the family "could not be more grateful" for the support, especially during the pandemic.
WBZ's James Rojas (@JamesRojasNews) reports:
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App