Movies & Private Events

Because we’re an awesome theater, a lot of people who want to rent space to organize a party or other gathering ask us: “Can we watch a movie at our event?”

The short answer is, “Sure you can.”

The long answer is, “But it depends on which movie we’re talking about and how much you’re willing to pay.”

Don’t get me wrong – we love movies and want you to be able to watch them with your friends. But we also need to follow copyright and public performance laws to keep us all out of trouble. So to help avoid an awkward conversation, here’s a little Q&A:

Q: We want to have a private birthday party in the Nickelodeon and watch Finding Nemo. Can we just bring our own DVD?

A: Unfortunately, no. According to the Federal Copyright Act, we cannot show your commercial DVD, film strip, laserdisc or VHS tape without first obtaining a public performance license. And neither can you, anywhere outside of your own personal home. Even though you bought it.

Q: Well then, how much is a public performance license?

A: The cost depends on which movie it is and how many people will be watching. But minimums usually start around $250, regardless of whether you charge admission or not. More popular movies – like Disney films – usually cost more.

Q: But we’re a non-profit organization and we’re not charging admission. Does that matter?

A: Nope.

Q: Yikes – that’s too much. Are there any other options?

A: Yes! We have a selection of public domain films and cartoons we can show without cost. These are films where the copyright has expired and there is no longer an “owner” of the material. The selection is limited, but many of them are quite good. Please contact us for details.

Q: What about the movies you are currently showing? Can we watch one of those instead?

A: Sure! We’d have to arrange it in advance and the per-person cost would be the same as current ticket prices. If your event has more than 50 people, let us know, as we can often negotiate a package deal with the studios in that situation.