City takes over Parton theatre

The Roanoke Rapids city council has assumed control of the Randy Parton Theatre and named a Boston-based facility management firm to run the entertainment center.

The move comes after weeks of speculation and closed door meetings in the wake of poor financial performances by the theater. Managed by Parton and his firm, Moonlight Bandit Productions Ltd., the theatre had been making its monthly debt service payments to the city for the building, but had been drawing on a $3 million reserve fund to do so. That fund had dropped to slightly more than $700,000.

The theatre has been plagued by generally lower than anticipated attendance, although city officials have generally expressed positive views regarding the theatre.

The facility, which hosts a nightly country and western musical show, is part of the larger Carolina Crossroads Entertainment District, and while the theatre was supposed to be a major drawing card to the district, some city officials have suggested it has been hurt by the fact that none of the other attractions -– retail and discount shopping centers, restaurants, and a large indoor aquarium center -– have come to fruition.

As part of the take-over, Roanoke Rapids has contracted with UNICCO Integrated Facilities Services, a Boston-based facilities management company.

“UNICCO brings extensive management experience to the table,” said Roanoke Rapids Mayor D.N. Beale. “I think their plans for the theatre will only strengthen its presence and help attract even more tourists and development to the city,”

“This is an exciting step,” Parton said. “I look forward to working with the city and the new management team to continue to grow the theatre as a world-class entertainment destination.”

Parton will continue to perform limited engagements and primarily focus on the theatre’s monthly matinee performances.

UNICCO, will begin booking acts to run in conjunction with Parton’s “Little Bit of Life” and “Carolina Christmas” shows, with a goal of diversifying performances to include nationally known country, gospel, rock, and beach music acts along with Broadway shows and various other theatrical productions.