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RANGELEY — The Rangeley Friends of the Arts is looking to bring first-run movies back to Lakeside Theater and to start an after-school arts program with two articles on this year’s town meeting warrant.
The town vote is Tuesday, June 13, by secret ballot.
The RFA is “working with a few dedicated movie enthusiasts who would like to bring back first-run movies to the Lakeside Theater,” the organization said in a news release. Because of changes in movie formatting, requiring a special digital connector, the group must buy a digital projector and upgrade the theater sound system to show first-run movies. The RFA currently has equipment to show movies using DVD and Blu Ray.
The estimated cost of the upgrades is between $50,000 and $80,000, the release said. The group would also have to pay licensing fees of $250 to $1,000 per movie. “Historically, Rangeley’s movie audience averages 22,” the release said. “This attendance level doesn’t cover the fees and operating costs.”
While the RFA is partnering with sponsors who have pledged to raise the money for equipment, the warrant asks for financial backing to help with licensing fee expenses.
The group is also hoping voters approve the Creative After School Arts program, which will begin in September for grades six through 12 and take place during the school year, on weekdays until 6 p.m. at the theater. The program will be staffed by a qualified employee managing the daily operation, the release said.
The Lakeside Dance Academy will offer lessons, WRGY will work with students interested in broadcasting and engineering, volunteers will provide workshops in theater performance and operations, music and performance, instruments, graphic art, fine arts and design, digital media, creative writing and community service. There will be a $100 fee per semester, and scholarships will be available.
“At CASA the boisterous extrovert and the shy introvert will feel at home in our diverse and accepting environment,” the release said, adding that “latch key kids, artistic kids, ambitious kids, quiet kids, your kids, will find a relaxed, healthy home-away-from-home where they can thrive.”
