Academy Award-winning filmmaker Steve Bognar recently helped the Little Art Theatre in Yellow Springs, Ohio, secure a $100,000 grant to fund a new marquee that pays homage to its century-long history. Bognar, a resident of Yellow Springs, directed and filmed an eight-minute video for the grant application, showcasing the community’s connection to the theater and the importance of preserving communal experiences in a digital age.
The video featured classic film titles flashing past the theater’s current marquee and interviews with local residents reminiscing about their favorite movie memories. Bognar emphasized the role of small independent theaters as community hubs where people come together to experience art and connect with one another. He highlighted the decline of communal experiences in modern society and the significance of preserving spaces like the Little Art Theatre.
The grant, awarded by the streaming media company Plex, will allow the theater to replace its current marquee with a stylish art deco design reminiscent of its past. The theater, which opened in 1929, has hosted a variety of events over the years, including film festivals and Q&A sessions with survivors. Bognar credited the theater for inspiring him to become a filmmaker and expressed his commitment to creating impactful stories for audiences.
The successful grant application reflects the growing recognition of the importance of independent entertainment entities in society. Bognar’s advocacy for small theaters like Little Art highlights the unique role these spaces play in fostering community connections and shared experiences. The new marquee symbolizes the theater’s commitment to honoring its past while moving towards a brighter future.
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