Entertainment : 'Robin Hood' next at Palace screen; digital progress continues

Staff and volunteers at the Palace Theatre were excited to receive the first five cases of RealD 3D glasses last Friday. It’s getting closer!

Remember, following “Robin Hood” this week and “Letters from Juliet” next, the Palace will close June 25 through July 1 for our digital installation. Our fundraising effort stands at more than $60K pledged. We are counting on your contribution to help us reach our goal by the first of July.

The generous outpouring of donations from families and businesses in Vinton, Van Horne, Urbana, Blairstown, Center Point, Mt Auburn, Shellsburg, LaPorte City, Cedar Rapids, Winterset, Virginia, two from Texas, and beyond has been astounding and overwhelming. Gerald and I and the Palace trustees, staff and volunteers are thrilled to be able to offer a digital cinematic experience to our patrons and maintain our low, family-friendly prices.

Hugh and I saw an 11 a.m. matinee of Shrek 4 today in 3D. It was great, but really folks....you need to help with the fundraiser to bring digital to the Palace. It was $20 for the 2 of us to see the show and another $20 for 1 popcorn and 2 sodas and jr. mints! $20 for a 4-year-old and his grandma (and I bet it is more at night!) compared to $6 at the Palace....take your pick! Give generously! ~Lu Karr, former Palace manager

Several patrons responded to my query - “Shrek Forever After” or “Avatar” for our first 3D movie? It was a close race, but the big green ogre beat out the blue men. The fourth and final “Shrek” movie will be our inaugural 3D offering, opening Friday, July 2.

Rest assured, “Avatar” WILL play the Palace yet this year. Look for our July schedule next week.

IN THE MEANTIME, “Robin Hood” opens Friday, June 11 and plays through Thursday, June 17 at 7 p.m. nightly, with a Late Show Saturday at 9:30 p.m. and Matinee Monday at 2 p.m.

Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett star as the leader of the Merry Men and Maid Marion, respectively. This latest high action version of the oft told tale is directed by Ridley Scott. A PG-13 rating for sex, violence and language and two hour and ten minute running time make this film unsuitable for children.

See Trailer Here

How many parents will be misled by the film's PG-13 rating? Must children go directly from animated dragons to skewering and decapitation, with no interval of cheerful storytelling? ~ Roger Ebert Robin Hood review

SUMMER THEATRE CAMPworkshops, however, are a perfect diversion and learning experience for your kids. The workshops, directed by Erin Horst, run weekly through the end of July. It’s not too late to sign up. Pick up a registration form at the theatre or online at www.act1.org.