The Capitol Theatre and Cafe is situated right in the heart of Laurens. One can’t miss the vintage marquee in front of the theatre, located on the town square. America has had a long standing love affair with the movies. Films both factual and fictional capture our attention and imagination. People young and old love to smell the aroma of buttery popcorn and watch the fizz of an ice cold soda. Cinema in South Carolina started out small with theatres opening up in various communities across the state. They were simple and pure. For the most part they are only memories to our parents and grandparents.

     Elder generations scoff at the size of today’s theatres. They have become complex and the prices have made it nearly impossible for our nation’s families to see good films. The Capitol offers an escape from today’s costly movie going experience and transforms it into one of simple serenity. Maxi and I stumbled upon the Capitol Theatre on the way home from Columbia last month. We were passing through Laurens when we spotted the theatre. We both knew at that moment we would be coming back.

     The original theatre was opened in June of 1926 by O.I. Sheely, Jack Young and Lee Young. The theatre was managed by Mr. Gus Mason. Mason took great pride in the Capitol and soon became a co-owner. After a slow start at the box office business picked up and the Capitol was a hit. The theatre experienced much success, surviving even the great stock market crash of 1929. Business was so good that Gus Mason opened another theatre during the second great war called the Echo. The 1940’s and early 50’s were a golden time for cinema in Laurens, but the landscape of American Entertainment was changing. All good things must come to an end. After four decades of bringing smiles and excitement to the people of Laurens, the Capitol Theatre closed it’s doors.

      By 1964 America had become obsessed with television, drive-in theatres and a rock band from Liverpool. The Capitol seemed to be lost in the annals of history. In 1998 Ronnie and Debbie Campbell bought the old building to open a department store for women. The store closed in 2003 and Ronnie continued to think of the old magic that took  place so long ago in their building. Renovations to the old theatre began immediately and the Capitol Cafe opened in October 2004. The first live stage show was performed the following spring. The dream of film became a reality once again as Ronnie and Debbie debuted Spiderman 3 on May 25, 2007.

     The Campbells have worked tireless hours to make the Capitol Theatre and Cafe a place that families in Laurens can be proud of. The cafe has a 1950’s theme that brings you back to the days of poodle skirts, sock hops and The King himself. Menu items include Jerry Lee’s Philly Cheese Steak, Fonzie’s Ham and Cheese and the Elvis Delight. Ice cream is also featured at the cafe. I can tell you from personal experience that it will excite your taste buds. The theatre has its own concessions with ice cold sodas and popcorn. Wine and beer are also served but moderation is strongly suggested. The theatre itself is classic but has all the perks we have grown to love. The movie screen is crystal clear and the surround sound zips through the audience with an exhilarating intensity.

     For five dollars a pop you can’t beat the price of a first run movie at the Capitol Theatre. The Campbells have a combo special that includes dinner and a movie for two for under $25.00. Another perk here is the friendliness of the staff. Everyone is treated like a local here as the hospitality exudes Southern charm. Excitement abounds at this little piece of history that revived itself through hard work and determination. Ronnie and Debbie have brought family fun back to the square.  History is repeating itself in Laurens and somewhere Gus Mason is smiling.

  To acquire more information about The Capitol Theatre and Cafe please call (864) 681-1099 or visit their website at www.capitoltheatreandcafe.com.

To see pictures of the Capitol Theatre click here and to see more pictures of our trip to Laurens County please visit our photo gallery.