CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa. (WJAC) — When films at The State Theater of Johnstown were shown decades ago -- in black and white using primitive technologies -- nobody would've ever imagined that someday it would become an IMAX theater.
"It doesn't seem real that it's happening. You kind of just have to pinch yourself."
That's what Executive Director Eric Reighard told 6 News about the moment he heard the news: they'll be the next home of IMAX technology.
They don't open a lot of IMAX movie theaters every year. To be selected here locally to put an official IMAX theater in, it's a huge thing for the area," Reighard told 6 News.After taking over the theater in 2020 with big dreams, Reighard said this IMAX announcement is a dream come true.
In addition to brand new seating, a giant "floor to ceiling" movie screen will be installed next to the theater's original architecture.
"We don't want to lose the beauty and splendor of this facility. Where we're sitting right now, this was all hand-done, horse hair plaster in 1926. This isn't something you can just call somebody up and do anymore," he told 6 News.
"We'll have all the modern 21st century amenities of an IMAX, but in a historical location that still holds all this beauty," he continued.
Leaders and engineers with IMAX travelled to Johnstown from all over the United States last summer to check the place out, and they liked what they saw.
IMAX is really about being a cherished community asset. When you have the level of enthusiasm, excitement, and passion that we see from the local folks in Johnstown, it seemed like a no brainer," IMAX Vice President of Sales Jason Swanson told 6 News about the decision.With hundreds of IMAX theaters in the world -- with the closest one to us in Pittsburgh -- community leaders say this move will help support local businesses.
Not only will it keep people here, but hopefully it will draw people in. So, if the closest one is Pittsburgh, I think part of the business plan is that hopefully this will draw people in from all around us," said Amy Bradley, President and CEO of the Cambria Regional Chamber of Commerce.While leaders hope it's a success, Reighard hopes this inspires the next generation of big dreamers in small towns.
"If there's something here that you wish was here, then go get it. How do you make it happen? Just build on it," he told 6 News.
Reighard said they expect to sign their contract with IMAX before March 31st.
He said renovations are set to begin within the next 90 days.
The building will be transferred from Conemaugh Hospital to the Johnstown Redevelopment Authority (JRA) before ultimately going to the State Theater.
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