What is The Hiway Theatre?

The Hiway Theatre, Inc is a member-supported, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization which was formed in November of 2003 to purchase the property of 212 Old York Road which was then operating as a movie theater under the name Chas III. The name Hiway was selected because in the theater’s ninety year+ history, it carried that name longer than any other (from 1940-1983).

The theatre now operates as a member supported, community theatre with the mission to preserve the historic Hiway Theatre and keep a local tradition alive for people passionate about film and the cinematic experience.

Why are you a non-profit?

In the world of the multiplex cinema, it is very difficult for an independent theatre to be profitable. However, a movie theatre is very beneficial to the vitality the surrounding business district and can provide many benefits as a community resource. Because we can not solely rely on ticket sales to cover the operating expenses involved with running the theatre, Memberships and Sponsorships and Advertising from individuals and businesses as well as grants from all levels of government and foundations help off-set the costs related to the day to day business and allow us to provide new and innovative programs.

We also host many special events such as the Children’s Matinee Series, Classic Film Series, Holocaust Film Series, [Summer Outdoor] Movies Under the Stars, and our Monthly Film Discussion. All of these programs have been very well received by our patrons, but take resources to produce. By becoming a member you will help to ensure this list of special programming continues to grow!

Who decides what films will be shown…

The Hiway Executive Director schedules and selects the first-run film programming and most of the repertory programming as well. These selections include independent, foreign and box office films.

The Hiway Theatre is a very unique one-screen theatre: it is one of the very, very few [in the nation!] that shows first-run films. First-run films are films taken upon their initial release date and can be independent, foreign or box office films. So, by maintaining a first-run schedule, the Hiway provides a selection of current and notable films. Sub-run films are films that are booked as engagements long after their initial release, at least one month or more. When possible, the Hiway also uses Sub-run films to bridge the gap between first-run engagements. Repertory films are films from previous years and are usually booked as one day showings instead of as engagements.  You will see a number of repertory films as part of our annual Hiway Childrens Matinee Series and as part of our summer programs: the Classic Film Series and Movies Under the Stars–a collaboration with the Abington Art Center. Of course, we also are a member-supported, non profit movie theatre so we seek films that are of the highest quality, ones that don’t always make it to the “multiplex”, ones that are thought provoking and the kind of films that, together with the Hiway itself, remind you “That’s why I go to the movies!”

…and how long they will play?

In seeking these films we must work to form strong relationships with both major studios and independents. Quality films, both big and small, come at a price: the revenue share and the terms of engagement.

The terms of the engagement–in other words, how long a film will show at the Hiway–is generally determined by the weekend box office and is really the decision of the film studio in question. When the weekend box office is at a certain level, we are obligated to hold the film an additional week. If it falls below a certain level, we are able to negotiate the “final” of a film [its last showings] and confirm the next engagement. Usually the longest term we have been obligated to have has been five weeks and the average term has been three weeks.

We do our best to provide our own programming to supplement the first run films we feature, such as our Children’s Matinee Series, Monthly Film Discussion, and, as we do annually in the Spring/Summer, our Classic Film Series.We have added two morning/afternoon programs to our schedule this year: the 11:30AM Movie Moms [and Dads] Matinee and our Golden OIdies program, which follows the Movie Moms; both occur on the first and third Wednesday of the month.

Note: our movies run Friday through Thursday. Movie time updates are available by calling our movie line, at 215-886-9800, or by visiting the home page of this website.

Do you have paid staff?

The Hiway employs a full-time Executive Director and a full-time General Manager, a part-time Projectionist, and part-time concession and box office staffers. We do, however, have volunteer opportunities–the sign up for volunteers is near the concession stand. Generally, volunteer work is related to weekend ticket taking/greeting patrons but we also occasionally need volunteer support for special events.

Where can I park?

Parking is available in public lots, on the streets and at some businesses who have agreed to let us use their lots after business hours. We also are nearby two municipal lots that offer parking for 25 cents an hour for up to three hours: the lots are located at Leedom Street and Summit Avenue and Leedom Street and West Avenue. Both Summit and West Avenue are accessible from Old York Road. Jenkintown offers free parking after 5PM on Wednesdays throughout the entire year. A parking map may be found here on our website.

Do you have listening devices for the Hearing Impaired?

Yes, listening devices are available for use. They may be obtained at the concession counter. Note: the device settings were recently redone to work with select DVD showings as well as our first-run shows on 35MM.

What does it mean to be a Member of The Hiway?

By becoming a member of the The Hiway, you are demonstrating your support of this Community Centerpiece and Quality Film. Benefits of being a member are discounted ticket prices, mailed invitations to special and exclusive Hiway events, free tickets, a discount on renting the Hiway for your special event and special member only events. You can become a member right here on our website!

How can my Business Benefit from The Hiway?

Our Business Partnerships include discounted admission for you and your associates, free tickets, promotion, recognition and advertising. Event Sponsorships provide GREAT exposure for any business. Thousands of patrons come to movies at The Hiway each year, your business can only benefit from this influx of patrons looking to dine and shop! Information on Business Partnerships can be found right here.

Can I rent the Hiway?

The Hiway is available for rent, typically during off peak hours: when we are not showing a film. Generally this means we can accomodate an event before 3PM during the week and before/ending by 1PM on Saturday and Sunday. Basic rental is $275 for 2 1/2 hours for a private event but, since event needs can differ and logistics[in terms of staffing, length of time needed] can dictate cost, we price events on an individual basis. NOTE: as a Hiway member you are entitled to a 10% up to a 35% discount on renting the Hiway based on your membership level! Email us at info@hiwaytheatre.org for more information on rentals or use the rental reservation form to reserve your date(s) today.

What amenities does The Hiway offer?

An extensive renovation has been completed and the theatre reopened on February 17 2007. The total project budget of $2.1 million included: an expanded, renovated lobby, lounge area, renovated screening room with new floor, seats and finishes, new sound, projection and ticketing, 1st Floor ADA restroom and ADA seating. Improvements that we hope to make in the future include: decorative sconces and curtains, new lighting system under the marquee, updated exterior including fabrication and installation of the vertical “Hiway” sign. The goal is to make these improvements while preserving and enhancing the deco-style interior of the Hiway.

Details of the renovation are available here. Although we open and we are operating, we are $130,000 short of our goal and more work is left to be done! Consider buying a seat, here, to help finish all of these details!

I really like The Hiway, how can I help?

You can help by becoming a member and telling your friends and neighbors about us! Join online or download a membership brochure from our website here or pick one up next time you are visiting the theater. Also consider making a pledge over 3 years to the Hiway’s Reel to Real Capital Campaign. Naming opportunities begin at just $1,000 for a Seat in the theatre! Donations to the campaign of $1,000 or more may be paid over two (2) years.

We have opportunities to volunteer with The Hiway as a weekend ticket-taker or to work at a table or event telling The Hiway story. We are also always looking for people willing to contribute their special skills or professional expertise to The Hiway. People who can run an event from beginning to end, can make contacts for events or fundraising or provide services are GREATLY appreciated! Contact us anytime at info@hiwaytheatre.org!