Williamston Theater Provides Popcorn-To-Go Option

While some businesses are able to remain open during these pandemic times, the reduced capacities allowed for patrons sometimes aren’t worth the operational costs to stay open.

That’s a tough spot to be in when all you really want to do is connect with people and bring back a little joy to their lives — not to mention, make a profit so that you can remain in business.

So what is a business to do? Think outside the box. In this case, it’s a popcorn box …  or bag, or maybe a bucket.

Lisa Robitaille and her husband, Dan, are the faces behind the red curtain at Williamston’s Sun Theatre. The two have pivoted to offer the public a little taste of the theater experience in hopes of providing some level of normalcy.

Popcorn-To-Go is a twice-weekly event where the community can pick up popcorn curbside, along with snacks, gift certificates and gift buckets.

“Popcorn-To-Go has definitely been helping, said Lisa Robitaille, “We’re usually pretty busy for it. People love it.”

Robitaille said patrons have really missed the Sun Theatre’s popcorn and are always thanking them for making it available.

“But in reality, we should be thanking them for their support,” she said.

While theaters are now open at limited capacity, the Robitailles have decided not to reopen the Sun Theatre for the time being. With the high cost of operating without concessions and the cost of booking movies, it’s just not in the cards.

“We really appreciate everyone’s help over the last 10 months, and we hope to get back to movies very soon,” Robitaille said.

In the meantime, Popcorn-To-Go will continue Wednesdays and Saturdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Sun Theatre will also be open for private rentals without concessions. For information, email manager@williamstonsun.com. You can also visit them on Facebook for details on Popcorn-To-Go.