Hebron Majestic: A Decade of Dedicated Volunteerism

Hebron’s Majestic Theatre is a Thayer Country treasure located in Hebron, NE. This year, the Majestic celebrates 10 years as a volunteer-run theatre, thanks to the Arts Council of Thayer County (ACT).

A Little History

The Majestic has been a Thayer County staple for over 100 years. According to Cinematreasures.org, “the original [single screen] 300-seat Majestic Theatre .. was destroyed by a tornado in 1953. A new Majestic Theatre was built and opened on January 9, 1954, with Audie Murphy in “Tumbleweed.” It had seating for 500, all on a single level.”  In the 1970s, Majestic Theatre was again remodeled into a twin cinema. 

10 Majestic Years and Counting

In 2012, the movie industry announced its decision to release all movies in digital format only. Majestic’s then-owner said, “No.” The Hebron Journal Register’s Volume 141, Issue 44, details the then-owner's willingness to close the Majestic due to the industry’s forced compliance. 

In 2013, ACT stepped in and saved the Majestic with the help of community donations and volunteers. “When we started renovation 10 years ago, we had so many community members step up to help out. Old seats were removed, floors were cleaned, and the concession area and bathrooms were painted. All of this help was volunteer,” Kristy Lukert, Team Leader & Vice President of ACT. “Our theater is locally run by volunteers who care about having a theatre and the overall well-being of our area. We have a friendly atmosphere and care about our customers. This project has been a culmination of Thayer County residents sharing their time, talents, and treasures. Without our residents, we would not be in business. We have young and old alike that have contributed to our success.” - Carlece Kenner, President of ACT

Since its June 2013 opening with the movie “Lincoln,” the Majestic has been a first-run theatre maintaining its $5.00 admission price with comfortable seating, plenty of legroom, surround sound, locally grown popcorn, and a variety of snacks. “Our best quality is having friendly, community volunteers who take tickets and service concessions,” Kristy Lukert. 

When asked about the future, “To maintain what we currently do … and expand our programs to include more art-related activities,” Carlece Kenner. “Among our future goals: continue to offer … high-quality movies, host more educational events, and offer birthday parties or town meetings in our party room,” Kristy Lukert.

Hebron Majestic appreciates its volunteers. If you’d like to donate your time, talents, or treasures, the group meets once a month and volunteers are always welcome, send an email or call 402-768-6061. 

Celebrate the Magic

We invite everyone to attend and celebrate the magic of Majestic! Sunday, February 26, 2023, the Majestic will host a red carpet event. This event will start at 5:30 p.m. with food and drinks, then progress to a presentation, recognition, and dedication ceremony at 6:30 p.m. 

The celebration doesn’t end there. To further commemorate their 10-year accomplishment, Majestic will simultaneously show a classic and recent movie during the month of March, offering free popcorn with paid admission. 

TCEDA is grateful to ACT for taking over Hebron Majestic and we stand with them in their celebration of success and giving back to our community. This is one of the many examples of how we live life in Thayer County. Together, we accomplish great things! Come join us here in the good life.