On Saturday, October 15th the Historic Fillmore Towne Theatre opened for a free screening of the award-winning film “. . . and the earth did not swallow him” for residents to enjoy as the opening of the new theatre. Photo credit Carina Monica Montoya.

Written by Carina Monica Montoya

The Historic Fillmore Theater opened its doors on Saturday, October 15th, for a free screening of the award-winning film “. . . and the earth did not swallow him”, a 1994 movie about a migrant farm-working family in the 1950s. Many of the scenes were filmed in Piru.

A 4:00 p.m. matinee featured a children’s dance group that performed a short traditional Mexican dance, and a special appearance by El Mariachi Los Rayos performed at the 6:00 showing. Actors Marco Rodriguez, Art Bonilla, Danny Haro, and director Severo Perez attended the event and were available after the last showing to Meet & Greet and answer questions.

It was a day of celebrating the opening of the 100+ year old theater. Strong community involvement and interest in the organization of the event and community attendance in support of its local theater, evidences the desire of many Fillmore residents to have its own theater and place to gather for entertainment.

The Fillmore Women’s Service Club donated funds for popcorn and water, and La Fondita Mexican Restaurant donated the use of their popcorn machine and provided the actors with a beautiful tray of pastries. Theater owner, Sean McCulley, spent weeks readying costly repairs needed before the theater could open. Fillmore resident Juan Toledo was MC for the event and donated many hours in support of the event by reaching out to people and organizations. Many others came together to help at the theater to bag and handout popcorn and water. A very special appearance was made by Ernie Morales, former City Council and Mayor of Fillmore, and his wife Becky, who both helped and supported the organizers in making the event a success.