Celebrating the grand reopening on the same day as its original opening in 1924, The Times Theater was the place on Valentine's Day in Rochester.  

After years of blood, sweat, and tears from local volunteers, and nearly a half a million dollars spent in renovations, the opening was made official by a ribbon cutting Tuesday afternoon. An open house was held until 6 p.m. and then the theater would close for an hour, in preparation for the grand celebration, that made for a bang at 7 p.m.

(Photo provided by The Times Theater Facebook page.) 

The steampunk roaring 20's theme party brought music, magic and local food and drink to a packed house filled with community members. More than 400 people showed up to the glamorous event, which stayed busy well past their scheduled 9 p.m. ending.  

(Photo thanks to The Times Theater Facebook from the grand reopening Feb 14, 2023.)

The Times Theater kept up the exciting momentum by kicking off the much anticipated Round Barn Opry. The band made their debut with a decade's themed show that would start with the 50's and end with music from the 2000's. 

(Photos from Friday evening as First Federal Performance Stage was being prpped for the Round Barn Opry's big debut.)

In the future, Round Barn Opry plans on holding monthly shows of live country music that will also showcase other local musicians. 

(Band members and father daughter duo Thad Stewart, left, and Katie Stewart, also known as Kate Carter, taken before Friday nights show by WROI GIANT fm reporter Shelby Lopez.) 

On Saturday, the big screen came back on for the first time since 2014. For just five dollars the Times Theater brought five classics, starting with the original Willy Wonka and ending with a showing of Star Wars.

(Photo provided by The Times Theater Facebook page)

Times Theater board chairman Julie Shambarger says she is still in awe over the overwhelmingly positive experience last week brought to not only the theater, but also to the town. The support from local businesses continues to grow, with many reaching out for a spot on the marquee, as well as an outreach from sponsors looking for future events.

More than just movies and music, the theater's building is designed to also be a host for live events in the community, including weddings or parties.