Ketchikan’s Coliseum Theater Set for New Ownership

Ketchikan’s beloved Coliseum Theater, the last remaining movie theater in the area, will soon change hands. After over a century under Gross-Alaska, Inc., the family-owned business has confirmed its exit from Ketchikan via a Facebook announcement and a letter in the Ketchikan Daily News.

Kenny Solomon-Gross, Vice President of Gross-Alaska and a fourth-generation operator, expressed that this was a tough decision, aimed at benefiting both the family and the Ketchikan community. He shared that there are no successors to continue the family tradition, prompting the unexpected decision to sell.

While the identity of the prospective buyers remains undisclosed, Solomon-Gross noted they operate businesses that cater to cruise tourism in the area. He hinted at exciting plans, stating the new owners might introduce 4-D or 5-D movie experiences, alongside regular screenings after cruise ships depart.

Solomon-Gross expressed gratitude towards the community, pointing out the theatre’s longstanding connection with local families. He reminisced about the shared memories of first dates and employment at the theater, emphasizing their deep roots in Ketchikan since 1897.

The Coliseum Theater’s final day of operation is set for June 9, after which remodeling by the new owners will commence. A farewell event is planned for the first weekend of June, where the new owners intend to join in the celebrations. Solomon-Gross hopes to host a community barbecue and invite locals to stroll through the theater one last time.

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Photo credit alaskapublic.org