The Grande Sunset Theatre has new ownership after being sold to the Grande Prairie Family Education Society. Theatre president and co-founder Lionel Robins says when the theatre started back in the spring of 2020 it was used as an outlet, and the hope is the society will take it to the next level.
“It was meant to be fundraising. We did all the fundraising; we donated our profits to the local charity groups who came and volunteered every night,” Robins says. “We also had third-party users; we had other non-profits come and rent it and do their own movie nights. We also had companies and individuals come for staff appreciation and client appreciation and parties.”
He adds throughout the COVID1-9 pandemic, the theatre also was host to several graduation ceremonies. The theatre started in the parking lot of Bullets & Broadheads Shooting Center and is now at its permanent home in Evergreen Park. It is said to have shifted to being more of a fun family entertainment facility, where those from surrounding communities can get the old drive-in movie experience, and Robins says this is what the Education Society will continue to provide.
Executive Director for the Grande Prairie Family Education Society Brandy Pilon says the organization is excited to take on this next venture.
“All the funds raised when people come join us at the drive-in actually goes right back to supporting families within your community,” Pilon says. “We will be looking to continue to have volunteers come out and support the drive-in. If you are interested in giving back to your community and you like free movies please get ahold of us.”
She adds user groups will still be able to rent the venue, however, the Family Education Society is still working out some of those details.