Rehabilitation Support Services, Inc. (RSS), a leader in providing rehabilitation and recovery services to enrich the lives of individuals with psychiatric and substance use disorders, announced the Walton Theatre will reopen over the Memorial Day weekend, more than a year after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the historic venue to close its doors to the public.
The opening weekend will feature the showing of “Cruella,” a Disney film starring Emma Stone that opens nationwide this Friday. Showtimes are Friday, May 28 and Saturday, May 29 at 6 p.m.; Sunday, May 30 at 1 p.m.; and Wednesday, June 2 at 1 p.m.
As the operator of the Walton Theatre, RSS has put a host of protocols in place to ensure the safety of both patrons and employees. The entire venue, from the lobby to the seating and bathroom areas, has been thoroughly disinfected, and a MERV air filtration system has been installed through the efforts of the village of Walton. In addition, a sanitization station has been set up in the lobby and plexiglass barriers have been mounted in the concession area. And, the lobby and theatre seating have been reconfigured to enable social distancing, and masks are required to be worn until patrons are seated.
An important presence in the Walton community since its grand opening in 1914, the Walton Theatre has been operated by RSS since 1996. Through this unique arrangement, consumers of RSS recovering from mental health challenges receive training and employment opportunities. There are currently five individuals employed at the theatre.
To further enhance safety protocols, RSS is in the process of developing an online ticketing system that will minimize interactions between patrons and employees. Updates on the launch of that system will be provided on the Walton Theatre’s Facebook page and website. For now, tickets may be purchased by calling the Walton Theatre at 607-865-NOTV (6688) or at the door.
