Royal 3 Cinemas

The Royal Theatre opened its doors on September 14, 1914 with a live presentation of ‘The Mascot" led by the Boston Ideal Opera Company and the theater’s 6-piece orchestra led by Mr. Niles. The 60x100ft theater originally housed 600 seats, and was first operated by the Royal Amusement Company. It would eventually screen movies shortly afterward. The March Bros. chain took over the Royal in 1934 from Dudley C. Scott. The Royal was remodeled in October 1939 and again in July 1967.

In June 1969, the Royal Theatre was twinned, causing its capacity to downgrade from 600 to 385 (with 275 seats in Screen 1 and 110 seats in Screen 2). Screen 1 featured stereo sound, while Screen 2 originally featured mono sound until August 1988 when stereo sound was installed inside Screen 2 during a major upgrade which featured updates to both projection, screen covers, and sound systems.

A third screen was added in September 1996 causing another remodel. Screen 1’s capacity was yet again downgraded from 275 to 110, while Screen 2 remains the same. Screen 3 featured 150 seats and stereo sound. Because of Screen 3’s addiction, the total capacity of the theater stands at 370 seats.

The Royal Theatre had recently changed hands, according to the January 29, 1916, issue of Motography:

“Carl Noltze of Cleghorn has purchased the Royal theater at Le Mars from George Toppings. The Royal will be managed by Mr. Harding, who will continue to run pictures as the regular program, but other shows and sporting events will also be staged.”

1916 ad posted in photos

Impressed with one-sheets on display.

There are plans underway to restore and reopen this theater: http://www.lemarssentinel.com/story/1677301.html

According to this article, the theater is closed and for sale:
http://www.lemarssentinel.com/story/1586257.html