Malco Majestic might become Memphis spot for music, film

Malco Majestic Cinema could soon become a Memphis spot for music and movie production if a partnership fulfills its vision.

Marie Pizano, CEO of MVP3 Entertainment Group, a Memphis-based agency that produces music and film, hosted a news conference Saturday morning to announce the possible expansion of Malco Majestic Cinema in partnership with ATWEC Technologies, a child safety company, and Atlantabased Worsham Hotel Group.

The expansion would add a dining area, TV network space, office rental space, a 150-room hotel and an indoor theme park.

Pizano had eyed the Malco property, 7051 Malco Crossing, near Wincehster and Riverdale roads, for some time along with Darnell Stitts, president of ATWEC Technologies, and Malco property owner Michael Lightman, president of the Michael Lightman Realty Co. Lightman introduced Pizano and Stitts.

“It was a godsend, actually,” Pizano said.

Both Pizano and Stitts envisioned turning the theater property into major Memphis attractions and both worked together to create a plan.

The $50 million expansion on the 20acre lot would also add retail shops, music recording studios,a family center and a sports complex to the six-screen movie complex.

“I see this whole Memphis and the surrounding areas like a candy store,” Pizano said. “We are sitting on a gold mine of talent.”

Pizano said the partnership anticipates closing the deal and purchasing the property by May 15.

Officials who attended the news conference include Memphis General Sessions Court Judge Betty Moore and Shelby County Commission Chair Eddie Jones Jr.

Malco officials did not attend the news conference and could not be reached for comment.

Dima Amro covers the suburbs and can be reached at dima.amro@commercialappeal.com

JIM WEBER / THE COMMERCIAL APPEAL Surrounded by posters from some of her movies, Germantown entrepreneur Marie Pizano has raised $20 million and plans to film five full-length movies in Memphis and the Mid-south.