Save Our Colonial Theatre (SOCT)
Belfast, Maine
The splendid Colonial Theatre first opened in April 1912 (on the very day that the R.M.S Titanic set sail on its maiden voyage) and it has enriched community life for residents of Belfast and neighboring towns for more than 110 years. The Theatre’s closure last September due to the retirement of its owners prompted a group of movie-loving and community-minded volunteers to come together to form the Save Our Colonial Theatre (SOCT) Steering Committee, along with a team of Advisors. The Committee’s goal is to turn the iconic landmark into a thriving nonprofit community center for film, live entertainment, and education.
Members of the SOCT Steering Committee have visited a dozen community theatres in towns throughout eastern Maine to learn about their programming and operations. Over balance of 2023 we will apply for nonprofit certification, meet with local arts organizations, gain input from community residents, conduct an architectural assessment of the building, and prepare a feasibility study to chart a path forward.
While we await approval of our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status from the IRS, the Center Theatre graciously has agreed to serve as our Fiscal Sponsor which allows them to receive donations on behalf of Save Our Colonial Theatre (SOCT). If you would like to support our immediate efforts to develop a plan for the rejuvenation of The Colonial Theatre, please complete the donation form below. All gifts will be acknowledged and your donation will be tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Any monies remaining at the end of the planning period will be turned over to the board of directors of the new nonprofit organization once it is established.
Your donation to Saving Our Colonial Theatre will help support the vital work of our Steering Committee and Advisors in planning for the preservation and long-term enhancement of the Theatre’s role in providing entertainment, educational and cultural experiences for residents of our Mid-Coast region. For more information, please contact soct@colonialtheater.com.