The Tivoli Theater Foundation, with its history of film, announces The Bobby Stone Film Series at the Tivoli.
Named in honor of Chattanooga native and Tivoli Theatre Foundation Director Emeritus Bobby Stone, this series will bring film back to the Tivoli "with the spirit of Bobby’s expert eye and passion for film," featuring both first run and classic titles.
"Films will include arthouse and other distinctive programming reflective of Bobby’s love of cinema and his own skill in cinematography and capture of light," officials said. "These showings would not be possible without recent generous contributions towards the installation of new equipment and a renovated projection room."
“Bobby was a cheerleader for all things Tivoli Foundation and none more so than this project he envisioned and helped oversee,” said Nick Wilkinson, executive director of the Tivoli Foundation. “While we are saddened by the loss of this instrumental board member, the Tivoli Foundation is excited to honor him with the completion of this project.”
This film series launch follows the installation of a new state of the art digital sound and projection system valued at $350,000. The system includes a brand new 4k digital projector, immersive surround sound and a 50-foot drop down screen, the largest of its kind in North America. Made possible by a gift from Bobby Stone’s family and friends, this new equipment brings film projection back to the ‘Jewel of the South,’ in a world-class way, officials said.
Keith Sanford, board chairman of the Tivoli Foundation, said, “the Tivoli Theater Foundation is proud of the recent turnaround it has seen since assuming control of the Theatre in 2015. The return of film programming into one of the country’s best venues will only build on that success.”
The Series will launch on Dec. 22 with a free screening of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and complimentary popcorn and Coca-Cola products.
“Having grown up seeing films at the Tivoli theatre, it is a surprising honor to see the fruition of my nephew’s involvement in the relaunch of film at the Tivoli. I hope his love of film and caring spirit will be carried forward by the series named in his honor. The family is honored and appreciative of the work and attention the Tivoli Foundation has given to this project.” said Cynthia Anderson, Bobby Stone’s aunt.
After the free event on Saturday, Dec. 22, the Bobby Stone Film Series will run throughout the year, the initial slate of films includes:
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation | Dec. 22 • 7 p.m. (free)
E.T. | Jan. 5 • 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Bohemian Rhapsody | Jan. 6 • 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
The Big Lebowski | Jan. 19 • 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
To Kill a Mockingbird | Jan. 20 • 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Oh Brother, Where Art Thou? | Feb. 2 • 3 p.m and 7 p.m.
Despicable Me | Feb. 3 • 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Tickets to above 2019 films will be on sale Friday, Dec. 14 at 10 a.m.