Mos’Art Theatre, located at 700 Park Ave. in Lake Park, has recently been hauling in patronage by the droves with its diverse entertainment options including ballets and operas, clubs and classes, films, musicals and more. This influx of movie- and theatre-goers can be primarily attributed to the theatre’s new owners, J.R. and Erin Coley.
The dynamic pair took over what is now the Mos’Art Theatre in March of 2011 with a passion for bringing diversity to the local area. The theatre that formerly served as Burt Reynolds rehearsal space and later the Kelsey Club nightclub is now a thriving movie and event venue that offers entertainment for any age through many different outlets.
Upon entering the Mos’Art Theatre, anyone would recognize the homey and artsy atmosphere that sets it apart from your average commercial movie theatre. “It is relaxing, modern, eclectic and fun,” said enthusiastic co-owner Erin Coley.
With an art gallery at the entrance featuring the work of local artists, there’s a connection to the community that promotes the small-town feel that is somewhat lost in today’s era of chain and franchise entertainment. This comfortable atmosphere is just one of several aspects that make the theatre a standout.
The versatility of Mos’Art allows for not only movie screenings, but also live staged events such as plays, musicals and concerts – a part of the theatre’s mission to offer entertainment for every generation. Mos’Art strives to provide entertainment to the older population through classes, musicals, folk concerts, comedy festivals, fundraisers, ballets and operas. “Our ‘Operas & Ballets in Cinema’ showcase the most professional cultural events from around the world within days of the live shows!” said Coley.
Specialty showings such as “Pearl Jam Twenty,” “From Britain With Love” and “This is Your Ocean: Sharks” have settled in at first place for middle-agers seeking entertainment outside the usual pop-culture films. And that’s not all – Mos’Art also features foreign and indie films as well as documentaries such as “I Am,” “Passione” and “Buck,” which have all been recent favorites among viewers.
Yet, despite the popularity of these mature audience films and events, family-friendly entertainment isn’t pushed aside. As part of an effort to find age-appropriate content, the theatre’s performing arts studio, Standing Ovation Performing Arts, offers family films and theatre including classic favorites such as “Bye Bye Birdie” and “Wonderland,” opening respectively in December and January. Standing Ovation Performing Arts also provides performing arts classes and a glee club for children ages 3 and older. These activities are a source of enrichment in an afterschool setting that thrives to build everyday life skills among children.
