Arrange your own movie date at the Magic Lantern

(Photo: The Spokesman-Review)

Good news for fans of the Magic Lantern Theatre (sorry but I've always had trouble being consistent with that British spelling of "theater").

Anyway, as of Friday, the two-screen moviehouse is reopening. Well, partially.

"We know you have missed going to the movies just as much as we have!" the theater announced in a press release on Monday. "In order to comply with the latest limitations regarding the opening of movie theaters in Washington State, we have had to get creative."

What that means is that the Lantern is offering its smaller house, which seats 30 or so, for rent. For $99, you can lease the smaller house for up to eight people for an evening and be able to watch the DVD or Blu-ray movies of your choice — though, the release adds, "We will have new movie options coming shortly."

All the standard safety protocols will be in place: Patrons will be required to wear masks.

Yet the Lantern's concession stand will be open, wine and beer will be available. And maybe best of all, the release says, "We also invite you to bring in lunch or dinner from one of the fantastic neighboring restaurants, Peace Pie Pizzeria, Stella's Cafe or the Saranac Pub."

Which sounds fine, though I've never figured out how to eat while wearing a mask. Drink? Use a straw. But eat?

Whatever, future plans include opening the larger 99-seat house "at limited capacity" sometime "soon" with a regular program of movie screenings. Go to the theater's website to keep up to date.

Until that happened, if you do want to hold your own private screening party, just email MagicLanternEvents@gmail.com and arrange a date. The theater ownership is clearly thrilled at the prospect of having it fan base back.

"We've missed you, Spokane," the release says, "and can't wait to see you back at the theater!"

For many of us out here, the feeling is mutual.