Valley Girl Views: Bijou Dream - A Movie Theater In Milton

The Bijou Theater, Milton Pa

After the fire of 1880, Frederick Wilhelm rebuilt his livery stable on Broadway. By 1906 the building was labeled as General Storage, and in 1913 it was the Bijou Theater. To the right is Pappa's Restaurant.

Bijou Dream, electric sign, installed April 1907

A 1928 obituary for Harry E. Davis states that the Bijou Theater was the first motion picture theater in Milton, and one of the first in the United States to install a "minor screen". Mr. Davis established and operated the Bijou for 17 years.

"Swimming Holes A popular "movie" actor has recently shown us "The Swimming Hole," which I have no doubt The Bijou has screened, as it seems to get everything a few days after we get it at "The Strand" on our Broadway." - From the letters of J.P. Kohler, Reminisces Of Milton

In October 1909, the building was being remodeled.

On July 19 1913, The Bijou advertised a free street parade and band concert in front of the theater. "The program was typical of the day and consisted of a vitograph feature..."

In October of 1924, The Pappa's brothers purchased the Bijou Dream, and also the Strand Theater [Family Theater] on Front Street. They used the Strand to show moving pictures while they remodeled the Bijou Dream. Remodeling plans included a dance hall on the second floor, and store rooms on the first floor. The theater was to remain on the first floor and "show only the most exclusive pictures.".

October 1924

In 1928 The Comerford Amusement Company took over half interest in the Bijou Dream in Milton. The Pappa's brothers remained on as managers. The stage at the theater was 15 feet square, and the background was hung with deep rose fireproof silk curtains. The front curtain were a "beautiful rose colored velvet. Colored footlights greatly enhance the lighting effect." New dressing rooms were added, and stage entrances were built.

[When George Pappatriantofillopulus naturalized as an American Citizen in 1928, he shorted his name to Pappas]

In 1931, the theater was being renovated once again.

"Theatre-goers of Milton and vicinity will be delighted to learn of the improvements which are taking place at the Bijou theatre on Broadway. Since the theatre was taken over several months ago by the West Branch Theatre Company many changes have been made for the benefit and enjoyment of the public.

The appearance of the exterior was improved some time ago and now the interior is undergoing improvements which will make the Bijou an entirely different place.

Foremost of improvements is the new and latest type enlarged sound screen which will give improved sound and 100 per cent projection. It is a full sized screen and will bring out every detail to the eye in perfect clarity.

The position of amplifiers behind the screen, projecting sound through it. enables the distribution of the voices evenly and with the same volume to every portion of the theatre.

Another detail which will be noticed immediately upon entering the moving picture house is the laying of carpet. Heavy Axminster carpet, over a thick base of double felt has been laid in the aisles, the inside entrance. and the balcony.

Needless to say the noise of treading feet will be completely eliminated. and all foreign sounds. interfering with the sound arrangements, will be deadened. Patrons now will not be annoyed during the show by persons walking up and down the aisles. The carpet is of beautiful colorings and in an attractive pattern, adding beauty to the interior of the show house.

Improvements will be continued from time to time, under the direction of Manager Wallace Folkins, and it is hoped that the public will appreciate the steps taken for a better movie house in Milton."

1931

In May of 1933 the Bijou was sold at Sheriff's Sale. The Shamokin News-Dispatch reported that Peter Pappas was refusing to vacate the playhouse after the sale. It was purchased by the Comerford firm, and they proceeded with a legal battle to remove Pappas.

In December the Bijou at Milton was razed, with "plans for the new playhouse" completed and ready for service by March of 1934.