A Shared Conversation About the Future
The conversation about the future of the Mariemont Theatre began with a simple question.
Last year, Mariemont Council reached out to Cindependent to explore what long-term stewardship of the theatre could look like—how this historic cinema might be cared for thoughtfully, sustainably, and in a way that honors its role in the community.
Over the past several months, Cindependent and community leaders have been working together to listen, assess, and plan. An advisory group was formed to help guide this process, bringing together local civic and cultural voices with a shared commitment to the theatre’s future. The advisory group includes Cheryl Rose, Jeff Chapman, David Zimmerman, Susan Brownknight, Flavia Bastos and is led by Allyson West, Founder and Executive Director of Cindependent.
At the same time, Cindependent’s board has been actively engaged in this work—providing governance, financial oversight, and long-term planning support. The board includes Jim Crooks, Jack Crumley, TJ Peloquin, Christina Hardebeck, Jonny Shenk, Doreen Stanley, Laney McCormick, and David Charles.
Together, this group has approached the Mariemont Theatre not as a short-term project, but as a shared responsibility—focused on preservation, stability, and ensuring the theatre remains a vibrant gathering place for generations to come.
Common Questions
1. Is the Mariemont Theatre closing?
No. The theatre is in transition, not closing. Any pause, if needed, would be temporary and focused on strengthening long-term operations and care. We will need to assess and repair the space when available and our progress is tied to our fundraising goals.
The Esquire Theatre Group is currently operating the cinema but will transition out of the space soon.
2. What does “stewardship” mean?
Stewardship means long-term responsibility and care. As steward, Cindependent is focused on preserving the theatre, strengthening operations, and ensuring it remains a welcoming community gathering place.
3. Is Cindependent from Cincinnati?
Yes. Cindependent is a Cincinnati-based nonprofit founded in 2017, best known for producing the Cindependent Film Festival and other year-round film and education programs and events like CindeNext, Snowtime Cinema and Hollywood Highlife.
4. What kind of movies will you show?
The Mariemont Theatre will continue to be a high-quality neighborhood cinema, showing a mix of beloved classics, independent films, family programming, and thoughtfully selected new releases - always with an emphasis on shared moviegoing experiences. We will send out surveys asking our community what they want to see - make sure to sign up for our newsletter and share your voice!
5. Are you changing the popcorn?
No. The popcorn everyone loves is staying. :)
6. Will ticket prices change?
There are no immediate changes planned. Financial discipline and affordability remain important priorities as part of long-term stewardship.
7. Why move to a nonprofit model?
Nonprofit stewardship allows the theatre to plan beyond short-term cycles, access philanthropic and grant support, invest in preservation, and reinvest in programming and community use.
8. Who is overseeing this transition?
The transition is being guided by an advisory group of community leaders and Cindependent’s board, with a focus on transparency, accountability, and long-term planning. The Advisory Group is led by Allyson West and Cheryl Rose, Jeff Chapman, David Zimmerman, Susan Brownknight and Flavia Bastos.
9. What role does Mariemont Council play?
Mariemont Council initiated conversations with Cindependent and remains a valued civic partner as the theatre moves into this new chapter.
10. Will the theatre still feel like The Mariemont?
Yes. The goal of stewardship is continuity -not disruption. The theatre remains a neighborhood institution rooted in Mariemont and we are hopeful to elevate that experience alongside you.
11. Wait - haven’t I seen your mascots around town?
Yes, Crunchy and Bubs will find their new home at The Mariemont Theatre. :) We’re excited to share them with you. <3
12. How can I support the theatre?
Community members can learn more, become a Friend of the Mariemont Theatre through membership, or make a leadership-level gift by naming and stewarding a theatre door.
13. Where can I get updates?
Updates and information will be shared at mariemonttheatre.org or on instagram at ‘mariemonttheatrebycindependent.’