By Paige Vachris, Staff Reporter

A group of local investors have launched the nonprofit Anthony Wayne Theater (AWT) in hopes of saving the Anthony Wayne movie theater in Wayne. The theater, which was built in 1928, closed down in March 2020 due to the lack of business during the COVID-19 pandemic. The nonprofit is laying the groundwork to revitalize the historic building through funding its reopening and transforming its interior.   

Local business owner Todd Scott leads AWT, which plans to renovate the theater’s current five screening rooms into separate spaces for movies and live performances. Local investors, including Ishana Night Shyamalan, daughter of filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, are funding AWT.

“Our goal is to create a thoughtfully designed space that serves as a vibrant hub for film, culture and connection,” Scott said. “It’s important to note that we are a 501(c)(3), so our shared vision centers on creating a place that will serve the local community, now and well into the future.”

The nonprofit plans to preserve the theater’s original Art Deco architecture. Lynn Ellis, vice president of the Radnor Historical Society, said that the building remains a significant community landmark.

“The Anthony Wayne Theater is a valuable example of how a structure can mean so much to so many people,” Ellis said. “People endlessly ask what is happening with the theater and what they can do to help with its resurrection.”

According to Scott, the theater’s success relies on the community, which will help fund the project. Once AWT completes the revival, it plans to work with and help local businesses by driving traffic to them. Though the project will likely take years to complete, AWT is already in progress to bring the theater back to life.

“We’re doing our due diligence and taking the time to do this right,” Scott said. “We intend to honor the legacy of the building while reimagining it for today and years to come.”

Paige Vachris can be reached at [email protected].