THOMSON, GA — After being closed for several years due to the impact of COVID-19, the historic Thomson Twin Cinema is reopening its doors with a series of exciting updates. Located between Augusta and Atlanta, this small-town theater has long been a cherished landmark for local moviegoers. With extensive renovations now complete, the cinema is poised to return as a vibrant community hub.

The renovations to the theater include new, comfortable seating, updated countertops, handicap-accessible restrooms, and a fresh coat of paint throughout the building. These improvements are designed to provide a more modern and welcoming experience for moviegoers of all ages and abilities.

Benjamin Cranford III, the son of the Mayor of Thomson, is now at the helm of the cinema. Having grown up watching movies at the very same theater, Cranford has a personal connection to the space. He fondly recalls his childhood memories of attending films at the Thomson Twin Cinema, never venturing to Augusta for movie nights.

“We never went to Augusta; we always came here,” said Cranford. “I remember walking in here as a kid and seeing my first movies. It’s been our dream for a while to open it back up, and it kind of fell right into place.”

The theater’s reopening is more than just a business venture for Cranford. It represents a full-circle moment for him as he takes on the responsibility of reviving a local institution. As the project progressed, he grew increasingly excited about the impact it would have on the community. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents expressing their enthusiasm on social media, particularly in a local Facebook group dedicated to the theater.

“We’ve been getting so much support from the community, and I think they’re going to love it,” said Cranford. “It’s been a long process, this building is old, and it takes a lot to get it back going, but I really think the community is going to enjoy it just as much as we do.”

The newly renovated theater will not only show movies but also host live events, with plans for open mic nights and other activities in the second theater. These additions aim to make the cinema a versatile gathering place for the community, offering something for everyone, beyond just film screenings.

Cranford expressed his gratitude to the residents of Thomson for their patience and support throughout the renovation process. “I’ve always dreamed of owning this building,” he said. “It’s just great to be part of Thomson’s history, and we really appreciate everything the community has done to make this possible.”

The Thomson Twin Cinema is set to officially reopen on April 18th, with King of Kings slated as the first film to be shown in the newly renovated space. This marks the beginning of a new chapter for the beloved theater, and the excitement surrounding its return is palpable.

As the doors swing open once more, the Thomson Twin Cinema will undoubtedly continue to be a place where memories are made, stories are shared, and the community comes together to enjoy the magic of the big screen.