Cinema St. Louis will take over ownership of the historic Hi-Pointe Theatre next month, with plans to use the landmark theater as its new base of operations and programming.
The Hi-Pointe, which marked the 100th anniversary of its opening this year, is the oldest locally owned and continuously operating single-screen movie theater in St. Louis, attracting generations of film lovers over the years.
Cinema St. Louis (CSL) says it plans to continue that tradition for years to come, hoping to partner with independent studios to show limited, first-run films, according to executive director Bree Maniscalco.
“Cinema St. Louis is grateful for this opportunity to not only preserve the last remaining arthouse cinema in St. Louis, but also to finally create a permanent home for the organization and make film accessible for the entire St. Louis community,” she said. “CSL will host its annual film festivals, educational programming and filmmaker seminars at the Hi-Pointe Theatre. The organization will also offer repertory film series throughout the year, as well as screenings of first-run films.”
Founded in 1992, Cinema St. Louis works to educate and inspire audiences of all ages through film with its annual offerings such as the St. Louis International Film Festival, St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase, QFest St. Louis, Classic French Film Festival and Golden Anniversaries, as well as year-round programming to engage younger audiences.
The Hi-Pointe, located at 1005 McCausland Ave., just southwest of Forest Park, got its name from the surrounding neighborhood, considered the highest point in the city of St. Louis. The theater has been owned and operated since 1977 by the James family, who has lovingly preserved and made improvements to the Hi-Pointe through the decades, including adding a larger screen and Dolby Digital sound, and refurbishing the auditorium’s signature aquamarine seats.
