Photo Credit: David Brossard / Strand Theater, Rockland, Maine / Flickr
Do you love listening to live music? Going to a live show offers the chance to feel the music and experience musicians and singers offer a heartfelt performance in their element. When you’re visiting Midcoast Maine, the historic Strand Theatre in Rockland on Main Street is a great place to catch a live show.
With 258 seats on the main floor and 92 in the balcony, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Famous names that have graced the stage include Arlo Guthrie, Mary Chapin Carpenter and Roseanne Cash, just to name a few.
Live music, comedy, movies and more
The Strand Theatre was built in the 1920s and fully renovated in 2005 to feature the latest in sound and projection equipment. This multi-use venue offers “the best of current independent and world cinema, live musical performances and concerts, comedy, conferences, The Metropolitan Opera and National Theatre of London Live in HD broadcasts, and other special events on our stage and screen.” For a complete calendar of events at the Strand Theatre, please visit the website.
History of the Strand Theatre in Rockland
In the 1920s, Rockland had three movie theaters, the Park, the Empire and the Strand. The Strand first opened in 1923 with a sold-out showing of My Wild Irish Rose, a silent film. Since there were two other theaters to compete with, the owner of the Strand Theater added a stage, fly tower and a balcony, which allowed it to host local dance recitals, theatrical productions and popular vaudeville shows.
The single-screen theater was built by Rockland businessman James Dondis with a steel frame and an ornamental brick façade. The canopy that stretched out over the sidewalk was crowned with a “blade” sign with the word Strand displayed vertically.
Today, the Strand is the only remaining 1920s theatre. Through the years, the building has been preserved and renovated to offer modern conveniences — including concessions in the 1930s — however it remains a beloved place to see a movie or a live music performance.
Concessions at the Strand Theatre
Whether you’re sitting on the main floor or in the balcony, a refreshing beverage or a snack is never far away. The Strand offers a full concession stand is located on the main floor, offering popcorn, candy, beverages and more. Beer and wine are available at the main floor concession stand during select events. The balcony bar serves a selection of fine wines, champagne and premium beer. The balcony bar is only open during live concerts, special events and all Saturday evening screenings.
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Photo Credit: David Brossard / Strand Theater, Rockland, Maine / Flickr