Pioneer Theatre

Ye Olde Pioneer Theater is Manteo’s true gem. It is a family-owned and operated theater that harkens of days of old. It features English Tudor-style architecture and boasts as being the oldest family-operated theater in the United States.

In its 78^th year in 2012, it still charges a nominal fee for entry, and snacks are so inexpensive there no longer is a choice whether you can afford popcorn and a drink, too. And forget about sneaking in your own candy. Enjoy a wide variety of offerings including delectable Milk Duds.

The films are family-oriented, and R-rated films are not shown here. For years this has been the weekend entertainment for children and adults alike and the first section nearest the screen is filled with school-aged kids enjoying the company of their peers while parents are within eyeshot.

They recently remodeled and put in new seats and drapes to update the entire inside. The projector runs smoothly, not like in the old days when it occasionally broke down in the middle of the run! But that actually was part of its beauty and no one minded. Folks were just happy to be together in their sweet town and losing themselves in a wholesome flick. Well today you can still do all the above in comfort and without any hitches. Movies change weekly on Fridays. Check out the billboard on Hwy 64 for the latest flick. And no worries…the kids are well behaved! All shows start at 8 p.m.