The Hi-Pointe Theatre, the oldest continuously running theater in the St. Louis area, has added second screen—don’t think multiplex, think intimate—it seats about 50 on leather seats.
The Hi-Pointe Backlot, on the second floor of the building just west of the Hi-Pointe Theatre, opened early this month. It has a separate entrance from the main theater, a block away, on the corner of Hi-Pointe and Oakland.
The feel is industrial, decorated with old movie posters.
Diana Grayson, who took over the Hi-Pointe’s operation last year, told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch the Backlot will “work in tandem” with the main theater to give the Hi-Pointe more flexibility in competing with the St. Louis area’s multiplexes.
Grayson co-owns the Hi-Pointe with her husband, Bill Grayson. Brian Ross is the manager, as he has been since 2008.
She said their goal is the continued success of the Hi-Pointe.
“By having a second screen, you at least have some flexibility to bring in films on a regular basis and not have just one film and it’s do or die,” she told the Post-Dispatch.
The second screen is priced the same as the main theater. Refreshments include a full bar in addition to traditional concession-stand items.
The Backlot is currently showing “While We’re Young.” An employee at the concession at the main theater on Sunday said they’re remaining open as to what will run in the smaller theater.
Read the full article in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Two thumbs up!
So cool! The Hi-Pointe is my favorite theater in St. Louis.