All the world’s a stage — and screen
Tull Family Theater has much to celebrate after one year
The Tull Family Theater in Sewickley recently celebrated its first anniversary, underscoring a mission to expand classic, STEM and cultural programming in the coming months.
“I think that our biggest accomplishment has been how quickly this theater has become part of the lives of the people around here,” said Carolina Pais-Barreto Thor, executive director.
“We also consider it a big accomplishment that we are drawing patrons from nearby communities, like Coraopolis, Ambridge, Leetsdale and, especially, Beaver County,” she said.
The nonprofit turned 1 on Feb. 17, in the first year selling more than 32,000 tickets for more than 90 films in multiple genres. In addition, the theater hosted two film festivals and provided outreach to hundreds of underserved youth.
Low-sensory screenings for children and families impacted by special needs, including autism, have promoted inclusivity.
Community programming also benefits underserved neighborhoods. A recent screening of Marvel’s “Black Panther” drew 82 students from Boys-2-Men and Aliquippa Impact groups. A local couple funded the trip, which included transportation, movie tickets and snacks.
On Monday, another local family is funding a sell-out “Black Panther” screening (169 seats). Programming includes students from Coraopolis Youth Creations, Holy Family Academy, Ambridge neighborhoods and Tiger Pause in Beaver Falls.
The two-screen theater at Walnut and Thorn streets, originally called the Vanguard, was later named the The Tull Family Theater in honor of Thomas and Alba Tull, whose family foundation donated to the project. It was built by the nonprofit Village Theater Company.
The theater’s mission stresses connecting education and “vibrancy” to surrounding communities, the executive director said. The theater also has been working to provide accessible programming for senior citizens as well.
“It’s been very exciting, seeing people taking advantage of it,” Ms. Thor said.
As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, the theater has been able to solicit funds for such screenings and programs, but it is working on a bigger picture: obtaining ongoing funding through a foundation, group or corporation.
“We have been securing [funding] on a monthly basis for at least one screening to be outreach,” said Ms. Thor, adding that 12 screeningsa month would be even better.
But funding to subsidize tickets isn’t all, she said. “Sometimes, transportation is necessary as well. We’ve been fortunate our donors are pleased with what the theater has to offer. They want to extend the same benefits to those who cannot afford it.”
The theater also has expanded its special events programming. For example, on March 29, the artificial intelligence-themed “Marjorie Prime” will screen as part of “Science on Screen.” And “Carmen,” from the Royal Opera House, will be available April 19 and 29.
For more information, go to thetullfamilytheater.org.