CASTROVILLE, Texas — A one-screen movie house in Castroville is reopening this week after closing as a theater in the 1970's.
The Rainbow Theater at 410 Paris Street was the city's main entertainment venue for three decades from its opening in 1943 to 1974.
The building continued to be used as an exercise studio and later an antique store and thrift shop. The neon sign still remained outside the building throughout those years as other businesses.
Last year, an effort began by local residents for a full renovation and installation of comfortable seating and audio and visual equipment. The group of residents consists of 50 families called "The Elsass."
On July 15, the theater will reopen for movie screenings for the time in 50 years. The theater will show both first-run blockbusters and movie classics. Plans for the future also include live music shows.
“I have dreamt of seeing this theater reopen since I was 6 years old,” Clay Binford, Elsass project leader, said. “I’m excited we can now offer this experience to our own kids and the local community.”
The renovation of the theater is part of a larger effort to restore and revitalize Castroville's downtown area. The investor group has purchased or built 10 buildings in the downtown area and brought new food, beverage and retail tenants.
Some of those tenants include 2M Barbeque-led concept called Blu Lacy Smokehouse, the French bakery Baked by Grecia Ramos, the Cork & Screw wine bar, and Overholt Supply leather shop. The group also owns and operates Elsass Hall.