State Theater Central City: The Historic Nebraska Theater Saved by Volunteers
For more than a century, this marquee has invited residents and visitors alike to step inside and enjoy a night at the movies. 🎥
This beautifully restored theater continues to draw moviegoers and history enthusiasts to the heart of Central City.
From buttery popcorn to classic movie treats, the concession area helps preserve the timeless charm of a night at the movies!
In an age of expensive entertainment, the State Theater still offers a night at the movies for only $6 per adult.
When driving through the downtown of any community, most of us tend to notice the quirkier things: old buildings with unique architecture, ghost murals, the occasional monument…anything that stands out from the ordinary. For those who have passed through Central City, Nebraska, one structure in particular has certainly stuck out like a sore thumb—but for all the right reasons. Enter the State Theater Central City, one of the very few historic theatres still standing in Nebraska!
Originally built in 1916 by Colonel William C. Shelton, this stunning piece of CC history began as a communal opera house. Entertainment of that era, long before home televisions or even radio was the norm, was limited to musical performances, vaudeville performers, and shows put on by traveling artists. This venue was built specifically to serve that purpose and give community members a central place to gather for entertainment. It was originally named after Shelton’s daughter, Martha Ellen, but was renamed the State Theater when Fred and Mary Ratliff purchased it in 1928. Sixty years later, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
After 84 years of largely uninterrupted operations, the theatre closed in 2012 when a nationwide switch was made from film to digital. Over $100,000 was raised to make the theater ADA-accessible, repair the HVAC unit and marquee, and update the carpets, lobby, and ticket booth using era-appropriate designs and materials. A $45,000 projector was donated by a single avid arts enthusiast to ensure that locals from miles around had a place where they could still enjoy a $6 movie, with candy and popcorn for a few extra dollars.
There aren’t many places in Nebraska nowadays where you can take each person in your family to a film for under ten bucks, with both tickets and snacks included! The State Theater Foundation was formed to keep the venue open for the foreseeable future, which seems to be no issue, thanks to the many volunteers who pour in hours to keep things running smoothly. Next time you’re looking to see a show, consider a night out in the State! And, if you ask nicely, you might even get a tour of the “secret” second theater hidden above the main showing room!
State Theatre
706 C Ave
Central City, NE 68826
Typically open Friday - Sunday!
Learn more about Central City and Merrick County, Nebraska, here. Visit Nebraska’s full state guide can be found here.
Generations of Nebraskans have gathered in this auditorium to laugh, cry, and escape into stories on the big screen.
Looking down from the balcony, it's easy to imagine the countless moviegoers who have gathered here over the past century.
The motherload of popcorn seasonings is available at the concessions stand! Eliese and I really enjoy “white cheddar” or “cheesy jalapeno.”
Originally built as the Martha Ellen Auditorium in 1916, the State Theater has been recognized nationally for its historical importance.
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If you'd like to dive even deeper into Nebraska’s towns and history, be sure to check out Visit531Nebraska: A Guide to Nebraska’s 531 Incorporated Communities, our pictorial and historical travel guide featuring all 531 municipalities in the state. Whether you're planning your next road trip or simply enjoy discovering Nebraska’s hidden stories, it's the perfect companion for your journey.
