The Big Picture Theater & Café, located in Waitsfield, is preparing to make a comeback as a nonprofit organization, reopening on May 1. The community is optimistic about this new approach and hopes it will secure the financial stability of this popular spot for dinner and a movie, which had temporarily closed its doors last fall due to pandemic-related challenges and not having enough staff.
Former co-owner Claudia Becker, who refused to give up on the theater, received tremendous support from the community, fueling her determination to save the establishment that had been in operation for 18 years. Now, with a new nonprofit model in place, the venue will be known as the Big Picture Community Hub for the Arts, supported by the Bigger Picture Community Fund, although many will still refer to it as “the Big Pic.”
The restaurant and bar will continue to operate as a for-profit business, leasing the space from the nonprofit organization. The same familiar faces, including former general manager Kevin McMillion, will return to work at the venue. McMillion, who has been with the Big Picture since its inception, expressed his enthusiasm about the reopening, highlighting how the theater has played a significant role in his life and that of his family.
Inspired by an article in the New York Times about small-town theaters transitioning to nonprofits, the Big Picture aims to offer more than just movie screenings to attract the community. The theater seeks to create a welcoming space where people can come together, enjoy various events, and engage in community-focused activities. By accepting tax-deductible donations through the nonprofit model, the theater hopes to expand its offerings and strengthen its connection with the community.
Future events at the Big Picture Theater & Café will include dance parties, documentary screenings, and summer camps for kids, in addition to regular movie screenings. The nonprofit organization will operate on a membership basis, offering benefits such as discounts, free tickets, and special event access to members. Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Grace Potter, a Mad River Valley native, is among the supporters of the theater’s nonprofit initiative.
As the theater prepares to reopen on May 1 with a day of festivities, including lawn games, live music, movie screenings, and a concert, the community looks forward to enjoying the Big Picture’s unique blend of entertainment and community engagement.
