Hundreds of people have commented on updates made to the theater's social media pages, and many posters have shared their best recollections of the venue.Following the Gap's closure in 2020, Harry Guerro, who is leasing the theater from longtime owner Joseph Farruggio, has been working to revitalize it. Many of the repairs, like refacing the marquee, have been cosmetic in nature, aside from putting in a new HVAC system and restoring the property's electricity.
Astute watchers will notice that the sign no longer has the numbers one and two on it. The theater by installing a second screen. However, the numerals remained, as if to indicate a second viewing zone. So far. Apart from such modifications, the theater will be exactly as it was twenty to thirty years ago. In reality, we cleaned up and renovated what was already there. This indicates that the blue, pink, and burgundy paint scheme from the 1980s and the wood paneling on the walls are still present. The 275-seat cinema does not include electric recliners. There will be a straightforward concession booth. In 1947, the Gap Theatre made its debut. When the shutdown was announced, many Slate Belt locals expressed their sadness on social media, as it had been a beloved first-run theater for decades. However, those same individuals are now rejoicing over its upcoming reopening.
The people's opinions will be very important in deciding what kinds of films the cinema will eventually screen. Every movie genre was represented in the more than 150 responses to a social media question asking patrons what they would want to see: kid-friendly material, classics like The Wizard of Oz, more recent classics like Star Wars, musicals, anime, westerns, etc. The majority of the films that will be screened will be in 35mm and 16mm formats. The owner, Guerro, is also the owner of Exhumed Films, a firm that hosts film festivals and events that specialize in cult and horror repertory films. He has hired Michael and Kaitlyn Drumbore, a Pen Argyl couple, to oversee daily operations at the Gap.
The Gap will have a soft opening in late February or early March. The owner has made the decision to withhold the details. Guerro emphasizes that ensuring a happy conclusion for this comeback tale will depend on getting people in the seats. The owner is extremely excited to open up this theater again for all to enjoy!