History

1920s

The Arcadia Theatre began its great history of entertaining the area on December 12, 1921. The owners were Irvin Focht and Leon Klock. The theatre was a one screen seating 900 people. The first film was “The Old Nest” and tickets were 15 and 25 cents. Silent movies were the newest thing, so the theatre was equipped with and organ, piano, and even an orchestra, so musical accompaniment could be provided.In 1926, William Woodin, the owner of the Towanda theatre, along with W.H. Seigel, purchased the Arcadia. Woodin named his son Larry as the new manager. Larry Woodin was the driving force behind the success of the theatre through the first half of its life. In 1929, the Arcadia became one of the first theatres north of the Mason-Divon line to start showing “talkies”.
1920s

1930s

In 1934, Woodin, started showing films on Sundays, which met with concern from some of the town residents. Soon after, a fire damaged part of the theatre and it was decided that it might be a sign and so the theatre remained closed on Sundays for several years.
1930s

1940s

In 1949, the theatre held its first premiere — “Top O’ the Morning” starring Bing Crosby. Larry Woodin also built the Y Drive-In in 1952. The Drive-In closed in 1986.
1940s

1950s

In 1958, Larry Woodin sold the Arcadia and the Drive-In to local businessman Frank Dunham.
1950s

1970s

The theatre remained a vital part of Wellsboro’s downtown through the 1970s. You could usually find Frank at home behind the concessions stand, dishing out popcorn.
1970s

1980s

In 1987, the Wellsboro Hotel Company, which owns the Historic Penn Wells Hotel and Lodge, purchased the Arcadia from the Dunham family. During the 1980s and early 1990s, when television came to full strength, the theatre started to decline in attendance and condition.
1980s

1990s

In 1996, the decision was made to completely renovate the Arcadia. In celebration of its 75th year, the Arcadia Theatre reopened on March 21, 1997 as a state-of-the-art 4 screen facility, yet preserving the classic look of an old-time cinema. Special features such as Dinner & a Movie and live theatrical shows add to the charm and distinction of the Arcadia. The theatre now thrives with record crowds and the latest films. As the Arcadia Theatre moves forward in the 21st century, it will continue to entertain area residents and visitors and maintain its position as a vital asset to Wellsboro and Tioga County.
1990s

2000s

In 2002, the Arcadia begins producing its own live theatrical productions.

2000s

2010s

The theatre converts from 35mm film to digital film presentation.

2010s

2020s

Coming soon.

2020s