Sanford and the Art Theater

On January 1, 2010, Sanford took over as the operator of the Art Theater - and he ran the business until 2012, when he collaborated with others to create the Art Theater Co-Op.

Like running for County office, running a movie theater was a leap of faith for Sanford. He had a long-time dream of running a movie theater, and when he learned that the Art Theater was going to be vacant, he leapt.

Another parallel with the County: at the Art, Sanford kept the same staff and equipment, but brought new leadership and a vision of the Art returning to be a cultural hub of the community.

  • He changed the relationship with his employees and customers, and introduced improvements like late-night movies, alcohol sales, and two-minute theater.

  • Over his three years, revenue grew 35% in year 2 and 67% in year 3, while profitability (Net Income) increased 122% in year 2 and 741% in year 3.

  • Under Sanford, the Art Theater won Daily Illini awards “Best New Business” (2010) and “Best Place to See a Movie” (every year).

You can read more about Sanford’s time at the Art Theater on this local history site (thank you Perry Morris!): Art Theater from 2010-2012 and in this blog about film programming (and The Room).

Sanford continues to be involved in film events, including:

Left: Sanford securing a 35mm film after a screening.

Center: Placing the marquee letters… much harder than you think!

Right: Sanford introducing a film with a Two Minute introduction.

Above: At the screening of Wrath of Khan, Sanford shows off the drink special: Romulan Ale.