The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center (The JPT) in Newport is rolling out a series of classic film screenings on its newly installed state-of-the-art projector.
“We are thrilled to present this eclectic mix of classic films, each bringing its distinctive charm to our theater,” said Alex Whitney, General Manager of The JPT. “From noir drama to holiday cheer and cult classics to literary adaptations, there’s truly something for everyone.”
The series kicks off Nov. 26 with Billy Wilder’s 1950 masterpiece “Sunset Boulevard,” starring Gloria Swanson and William Holden. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a complimentary Pinot Noir tasting, with the screening beginning at 7:30 p.m.
On Nov. 29, the theater will show the 1990 family favorite “Home Alone” at 6 p.m. to mark the start of the holiday season. Free holiday cookies will be available for moviegoers.
The JPT will celebrate the 30th anniversary of Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction” on Dec. 12. Doors open at 7 p.m. for live surf-rock music from the TeleDynes and a beer tasting from Rejects Beer Co. The screening begins at 8 p.m.
Rounding out the announced lineup is a 50th anniversary screening of “The Great Gatsby” on Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m. The 1974 adaptation was filmed in Newport, and guests are encouraged to dress in 1920s attire.
Whitney said the theater looks forward to “welcoming audiences to experience these incredible films on our brand-new, state-of-the-art projector.”
The Jane Pickens Theater has been a fixture in Newport since the 1920s when it began showing silent films. The building itself dates back to 1834, when it was originally constructed as a church.
Over the past 15 years, the theater has undergone significant improvements to preserve its history while upgrading features for a more modern experience.
Tickets for all screenings are available through the Jane Pickens Theater website at janepickens.com. The theater encourages early ticket purchases, as some events may sell out.
