GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- Studio 28, West Michigan's first multiplex and at one time, one of the largest cinemas in the US with 20 screens, is closing November 23rd.
The theater is falling victim to newer nearby cinemas with stadium seating and modern conveniences.
It originally opened as a single-screen theater in 1965 and expanded to six screens in 1976. In 1984 it doubled to 12 screens with 4,000 seats. In 1988 it grew to 20 screens, becoming the world's first megaplex.
The owner said ticket sales had fallen about 75% from the 1990s to about a half million dollars a year. He was also facing the cost of a new roof that had been built in pieces.
An auction of memorabilia will be held about a month after the theater closes. Employees are being offered jobs at other Celebration! theaters.
Read more at MLive.com and at Wood TV 8.
