New Clark Theatres open to sell-out crowds [with gallery]

Published 1:48 am Saturday, April 15, 2017

Locals turn out in droves to see new ‘Fast and Furious’ movie

By noon on Friday, there were people waiting to buy tickets to the 1 p.m. matinee at the newly renovated Clark Theatre in downtown Andalusia.

“We sold out the 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, and 8 p.m. shows of The Fate of the Furious,” local manager Michael Kimbril said. “And Boss Baby almost sold out.”

Kimbril said there were all ages visiting the theater on Friday.

“I think half of it was because people were interested in the movie, and half was because it’s brand new,” he said.

Last January, the City of Andalusia announced a partnership in which the building, then owned by the O’Neal family, was donated to the city. In turn, the city completely renovated the facility, adding a new HVAC system, moving the restrooms and snack bar, and adding new seating, including recliners in the downstairs theaters.

Clark Theatres owner Mack Clark said the recliners are a huge hit.

New food items will be added to the snack bar in coming weeks, but on Friday, the most popular item was nachos with jalapenos, Paul Hodge said.

“They’re killing us trying to keep up.”

Tickets are $7.50 for the matinee. Evening ticket prices are $8 for children; $10 for adults; $8 for seniors over age 6; and $8 for those with a military identification.