Bringing culture back to downtown Rogers (Benton, Bentonville: rent, businesses, theater)

[baraines]

My husband and I just recently talked about some different businesses that could help make Downtown Rogers a bit more charming and bring back some of the historical richness of its past. One business that we are considering opening is an independent film theatre. This would feature artistic (or indie) films, older films, and possibly mainstream films that are created for a different audience. I am looking for some feedback from my fellow community members on if this would be something you believe people would take an interest in. We would build it right out of one of the older buildings on the square and keep a lot of originals. If you're more comfortable emailing or would like to be a part of something like this, you can contact me at ba.raines@hotmail.com I would appreciate your input!

[DC at the Ridge]

It would be nice to juxtapose an indie film theater across from the Rogers Little Theatre, but Rogers doesn't really have a square. The downtown was built along the railroad tracks, so I'm having difficulty envisioning where you want to put this theatre. Are you thinking about along Walnut someplace?

[baraines]

I tend to call it the square because I've lived in Bentonville longer than Rogers...my apologies. We've looked at 2 buildings on Walnut and one on 1st St. Both seem central to "the action".

[DC at the Ridge]

The Benchmark building on Walnut? or further on up? You know, if you wanted to do a little test, you ought to talk to the Main Street Rogers people about showing some indie movies this summer. There are some slow weekends in the summer, where a screen could be set up, maybe around the bandstand, and people invited to bring blankets and chairs, and you could just see what the turnout is, maybe sell people wristbands for all you can eat popcorn and lemonade just to offset your expenses and get a feel for the size and interests of the audience.

[undertheironsea]

I can blow in a jug.

Put my talents to use!

"I'm bringin' culture back...them other boys don't know how to act..."

[RogMar]

Originally Posted by undertheironsea

I can blow in a jug.

Put my talents to use!

"I'm bringin' culture back...them other boys don't know how to act..."

I'm in.

I'm with ya.

"In constant saw-row........"