West Twin Theater closed, will re-open mid-November

Posted on Thursday, October 2, 2014

The West Twin Theater announced today they have closed their doors to undergo improvements with plans to re-open mid-November.

“I have considered several options over the last few years with the hope that the Madison theater could remain open,” Todd Frager, owner of the West Twin Theater said. “Movies are now made with DLP Cinema technology (digital video) and it has become increasingly difficult to get movies in 35mm.”

Frager received an economic development loan from the Lake Area Improvement Corporation and Great Western Bank. The funds will assist in purchasing digital video equipment and sound, drapes, signage, upgrading electrical and other basic improvements. Frager indicated the renovations will allow him to operate more efficiently and better serve customers.

“With the help and vision of the LAIC and Great Western Bank, we have a business model to keep first run movies in Madison,” said Frager. “Digital video delivers crystal clear and lifelike images that are sharp, bright and accurate. It is the ultimate in picture quality.”

The upgrade to digital will allow the Madison area to enjoy new movie titles and will bring a positive experience to movie-goers.

“The West Twin Theater is a great asset to the Madison community and we are happy to provide funding to help keep it here,” stated LAIC Executive Director Julie Gross. “This is a positive step for Madison and coincides with the mission of the Madison Downtown and Beyond taskforce, which is committed to enhancing the vitality of the Madison area.”

Frager looks forward to an increase in movie selection, and with community support, the movie business in Madison will continue.

Frager has been in the theater industry since 1983 and purchased the West Twin Theater in 1996. He operates the West Mall 7 Theater in Sioux Falls, the Northland Cinema in Worthington, MN and the Fairmont Theater in Fairmont, MN.

The Lake Area Improvement Corporation (LAIC) Loan Fund plays an important role in the economic growth and development of Lake County. The LAIC Fund assists projects that contribute to economic development, job retention and/or creation, and/or improving growth opportunities.

The LAIC’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of the Lake County area and to facilitate the development and retention of quality jobs that are environmentally and economically compatible for Lake County. The LAIC, in cooperation with other organizations, initiates and develops leadership, markets the area to both prospective new business and residents, fosters and manages change, and nurtures a positive, cooperative and progressive attitude.