The Recreation Centers of Sun City West are fast approaching the first-year mark of operating the Stardust Theatre’s movie program, previously coordinated by the Friends of the Library. Since that transition, staff have worked to evaluate attendance trends and explore ways to encourage greater participation from the community.
Attendance at movie showings had declined in recent years, so several scheduling approaches were tested in an effort to better accommodate members’ interests and activities. Initially, Tuesday afternoon matinees were introduced, but attendance remained lower than hoped. In response to feedback and scheduling conflicts with Women’s Golf, the matinees were moved to Fridays. While the Friday afternoon schedule helped avoid conflicts, attendance still did not significantly improve.
After reviewing participation patterns and considering seasonal residency trends within the community, The Recreation Centers have decided to adjust the movie schedule once again.
Starting in July and lasting through the month of August, movies will be shown every Thursday evening at 6 p.m.
Beginning in September, when many seasonal residents return to Sun City West, movies will transition to an every-other-Thursday evening schedule that runs through the month of May.
Movies showings will still remain at Stardust Theatre, located on the Kuentz Rec Center, and admission continues to be free and open to all Sun City West members and their invited guests. Donations are welcomed at the door, with proceeds shared with the Friends of the Library in appreciation of their continued support of the movie program.
Attendees can also enjoy a popcorn and bottled water combo available in the theater’s lobby for just $1.
Recreation Center staff appreciate the community’s continued support and look forward to welcoming members to upcoming movie nights this summer and beyond.
Check out the upcoming schedule of movies by visiting suncitywest.com/stardustmovies or clicking the button below!