Petawawa Theatre prepares to reopen May 17
Many thought they had seen the final curtain call at Troyes Cinema, located on Garrison Petawawa, when the movie theatre closed in 2022.
The previous manager retired, leaving the big screen on base blank for nearly two years.
But the only remaining indoor movie theatre between Renfrew and North Bay is set to reopen May 17.
Oakville-based company Film.ca has taken over management of the military-owned building.
"My son Dylan recently joined the Armed Forces and was stationed at CFB Petawawa,” Jeff Knoll, CEO of Film.ca tells CTV News Ottawa.
“While we were visiting him at his new home, we saw that the movie theater had actually closed shortly after they moved in, and recognized what an important feature was to that community."
The roughly 300-seat theatre is currently under renovations for a much needed facelift, but Knoll says there was too much excitement about the reopening.
"The moment we mentioned that we're reopening the outreach and the outcry of excitement from the community was palpable. So, we wanted to get open as quickly as possible,” Knoll said.
Interior of the Troyes Cinema, located on Garrison Petawawa. (Dylan Dyson/CTV News Ottawa)
Petawawa resident Christina Knot-Allen says her children went to the last movie before it closed.
"We have an 11-year-old and a 17-year-old. So, they're excited to be able to go back and watch movies,” she said.
Fellow local resident Kelsie Young says she grew up on base in Petawawa and recalls the fond memories of time spent at Troyes Cinema and the theatrics put on by the previous manager.
"It was always a show, he used to do handstands. I forgot about that, it was amazing,” said Young.
"We live just down the street, so we can't wait to just be able to walk and go see a movie and walk home."
CFB Petawawa Commander Col. Jason Guiney says having the theatre reopen on base will be a moral boost to soldiers and provides more opportunities for socialization.
"First and foremost, these services are for soldiers,” said Guiney.
“But we encourage our soldiers to bring their friends and families, (and) to bring their friends as well."
On social media, Troyes Cinema says the theatre will be open to everyone from the public.
Jeff Knoll, CEO of Film.ca, the Oakville-based company has taken over management of the military-owned building.
“I wanted to be able to use my expertise to improve quality of life on the base,” said Knoll.
“I think the biggest piece for us was really trying to contribute to our forces and to the surrounding communities.”
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Feels like mid-30s in parts of Canada, while other areas expecting snow
Anything is possible this week, as far as Canada's weather is concerned, with forecasts ranging from scorching heat in some parts of the country to rain and snow in others.
Independent stores and grocery alternatives see sales boost amid Loblaw boycott
As the month-long boycott of Loblaw-owned stores wears on, small independent food retailers and alternative grocery options say they're seeing a boost in traffic and sales.
1 dead, others injured after London-Singapore flight hit severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines says
One person has died aboard a London-Singapore flight that encountered severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines said Tuesday. The plane was diverted to Bangkok, where emergency crews rushed to help injured passengers amid stormy weather.
What is BORG drinking, and why is it a dangerous trend? An expert explains
If you've been to a party lately and haven't seen someone drinking a BORG, you're likely not partying with college students.
How to check the Air Quality Health Index and assess your health risks
As we enter another wildfire season, Environment and Climate Change Canada is advising people to pay attention to air pollution levels and check the Air Quality Health Index – especially on smoky days.
Cardinal Lacroix cleared after investigation ordered by the Pope
The Vatican has announced that the investigation it commissioned into allegations of sexual touching against Cardinal Gerald Cyprien Lacroix did not confirm any act constituting misconduct or abuse on the part of the Vatican.
Trudeau making 'Team Canada' charm offensive in visit to Philadelphia
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Philadelphia today, on his first trip south of the border since his government launched a new 'Team Canada' charm offensive in the United States.
Oilers win Game 7 over Canucks, advance to Western Conference Final
The Edmonton Oilers weathered a late Vancouver Canucks charge on Monday night, beating the hosts 3-2 to win their seven-game second-round playoff series in the decisive showdown.
Katy Perry sings goodbye to 'American Idol'
Katy Perry said her goodbyes on 'American Idol' after seven seasons. On Sunday night’s live 'idol' season finale, a medley of Perry's hit songs were performed, including 'Teenage Dream,' 'Dark Horse' and 'California Gurls.'