What Is Freaks At The Lincoln?

Step into a 1929 Mayan Revival landmark and settle in for a night where cinema turns into conversation. We’re pulling back the curtain on Film Freaks at The Lincoln, our free, monthly program that blends a sharp, 20-minute primer on film history with a top secret screening and an energetic talkback. Curator Katelin Aanerud joins us to map the 2026 slate and explain how a historic theatre, a curious crowd, and bold programming can turn a simple movie night into a shared discovery.

We kick off with midnight movies and cult classics, tracing how late-night rituals built communities around transgression, camp, and catharsis. Expect nods to Rocky Horror and Pink Flamingos, then a surprise 80s British comedy to test how humor ages across eras. From there, we jump to science fiction’s tech prophecies—virtual reality in the 90s, the dream of ubiquitous screens, and the uneasy edge where immersion blurs identity. Katelin shares why revisiting analog visions of the future helps us think clearly about today’s AR, haptics, and algorithmic feeds.

We also dig into adaptations and authorship: what fidelity really means, how directors translate voice and structure, and when a film redefines a book in public memory. Along the way, you’ll hear how we choose titles you rarely catch on the big screen, why audience questions shape each discussion, and how patrons will help steer topics later this year. If you love movies, arguments, and the rush of seeing something new with a roomful of strangers, this is your seat.

Admission is free, the popcorn is flowing, and the doors are open. Subscribe, share this episode with a film-loving friend, and leave a review to tell us which adaptation or cult classic we should tackle next.

To learn more about The Lincoln Theatre visit:
https://www.TheLincoln.org/
The Lincoln Theatre
117 E. Main Street
Marion, Virginia 24354
276-783-6092

Meet Rachelle And Anthony

A theatre becomes a heartbeat when people build their weeks around it, and that’s exactly what’s happening at The Lincoln Theatre in Marion, Virginia. We sit down with two loyal patrons who call the venue the town’s crown jewel and unpack why this 1929 landmark still pulls a crowd for films, concerts, and community moments that matter. Their stories move from a childhood horror screening that left a lasting mark to the joy of watching Animal House on a towering screen after countless living room rewatches, showing how nostalgia feels different when the room laughs with you.

We dive into the power of tribute shows—Fleetwood Mac favorites like Landslide and the enduring pull of Free Bird—where great bands meet familiar songs and an entire audience sings in unison. That blend of memory and mastery is where local stages shine, turning well-loved albums into live, shared experiences. We also highlight the volunteers and staff who make it all work, from ushers with flashlights guiding newcomers to the reliable rituals of favorite seats and friendly greetings that turn first-time visitors into regulars.

Song of the Mountains gets a special spotlight, as our guests talk about attending the PBS-taped bluegrass and Americana series in person and then catching episodes later at home. A monthly cadence brings rhythm to town life while giving artists a storied stage and audiences a trusted way to discover new acts rooted in the region. If you’re planning a visit or live nearby, thelincoln.org is your best friend for schedules and a short, engaging history that brings The Lincoln’s legacy to life. Join us for a conversation about why local theatres endure, how they bind neighbors together, and what it takes to keep that marquee glowing on Main Street. If you enjoyed this, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—what show would you love to see at The Lincoln next?

To learn more about The Lincoln Theatre visit:
https://www.TheLincoln.org/
The Lincoln Theatre
117 E. Main Street
Marion, Virginia 24354
276-783-6092

How Does The Friends Of The Lincoln Support The Mission Of The Theatre?

A 1929 landmark doesn’t survive on nostalgia alone. We sit down with Executive Director Bob Watkins to unpack how Friends of The Lincoln turns community pride into real-world results: funded performances, a refreshed green room, named seats that carry family stories forward, and the big-ticket operations that keep audiences comfortable. The Lincoln Theatre’s Mayan Revival architecture sets the mood, but careful stewardship—right down to period-appropriate carpet and paint—protects the soul.

Bob explains how the Friends program channels donations straight into impact, from underwriting shows to replacing aging HVAC units across three zones. Numbers matter here: with each unit estimated at $50,000 to $75,000, the theatre blends member contributions with corporate sponsorships and regional grants to close the gap. Supporters get more than a thank-you; they earn recognition on the website, early access to new releases, and the satisfaction of earmarking gifts for projects they care about most. Volunteers amplify the mission as ushers and event helpers, proving that time is as valuable as funding.

What makes this model work is transparency and ownership. Patrons can donate anonymously or by card at Thelincoln.org, designate funds for specific upgrades, and even dedicate a seat to a loved one. That personal tie deepens community engagement and keeps the venue buzzing with life. If you care about preserving local culture while elevating the live experience for artists and audiences, this conversation lays out a practical roadmap—one project at a time, one memory at a time, one great night at a time.

Enjoyed the conversation and want to help keep the arts alive? Subscribe, share with a friend who loves historic theatres, and leave a review. Ready to pitch in or volunteer? Visit thelincoln.org and tell us where you’d like your support to make a difference.

To learn more about The Lincoln Theatre visit:
https://www.TheLincoln.org/
The Lincoln Theatre
117 E. Main Street
Marion, Virginia 24354
276-783-6092

Step through the doors at 117 East Main Street and you’re greeted by the smell of popcorn, a wall of handmade goods, and a century of stories waiting to be told. We bring on Ashley Woolridge—our media coordinator and co-manager of the box office and gift shop—to share how a 1929 movie palace transformed into a living hub for artists, audiences, and neighbors. From original projectors to modern programming, The Lincoln Theatre thrives by pairing preservation with participation.

Ashley traces her path from a high school job shadow to a frontline role shaping community access. She walks us through the artist-friendly consignment program that features around 45 local makers within a 30-mile radius, selling crochet, ceramics, woodworking, leather, letterpress, soaps, candles, and more. No rental fees, just a simple 20 percent split that supports the theater while lowering barriers for first-time sellers. It’s a micro-incubator disguised as a gift shop—one that turns browsing before a show into real support for local craft.

We also dive into free, accessible programming like the Golden Oldies film series, staged the second Tuesday at 11 a.m. The series connects audiences who might skip evening events and creates new routes into the arts. Ashley shares how we honored muralist Lola Poston—whose six works define our space—with a birthday screening of a 1929 female-directed film, family photos, and a mirror-drawing table inspired by Lola’s early practice. These small, hands-on moments turn a theater visit into a shared memory, strengthening the ties between history and the people who keep it alive.

If you care about creative economies, local businesses, and the future of small-town culture, this conversation offers a practical playbook: open the doors wide, showcase handmade work, make events easy to attend, and link every program to the stories that built the place. Subscribe for more stories from the stage, share this episode with a friend who loves local art, and leave a review to help others find the show.

To learn more about The Lincoln Theatre visit:
https://www.TheLincoln.org/
The Lincoln Theatre
117 E. Main Street
Marion, Virginia 24354
276-783-6092

History meets human beatbox wizardry as we welcome Michael Winslow to The Lincoln Theatre stage for a fast, funny, and surprisingly practical journey through sound. From Air Force bases and Saturday-morning cartoons to Gong Show grit and improv-driven film sets, Michael unpacks how a life of listening turned into a career of storytelling. His method isn’t just about clever effects; it’s a blueprint for focus, rhythm, and attention—how sound directs what we see, what we feel, and what we remember.

We dig into the craft behind the chaos: storyboards over scripts, third-take precision, and why audio is the spine of any scene. Creators get a toolkit they can use today—treat your phone like a studio, invest in a simple plug-in microphone, and let story outrun gear. Michael’s examples span Police Academy, Spaceballs, and a nod to “This Is America,” illustrating how foreground and background cues steer the audience’s eye. When sound locks in, even a broken camera can deliver a hit.

Then comes the live tease: a “sound wall” that blends comedy, crowd play, and music nods to Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Snoop, and Gorillaz. Sometimes a drummer joins, sometimes it’s pure voice, always it’s about building pictures in the mind. We also get candid about filming rules, licensing, and the rising risk of AI misuse—why selfies are welcome but full recordings aren’t, and how artists can protect their work without shutting fans out. Offstage, Michael champions meet-and-greets and a simple charity jar to funnel energy back into local hospitals and shelters.

Come for the laughs, leave with a sharper ear and a stronger toolkit. Grab tickets at Thelincoln.org, follow Michael on Instagram for “Winslow TV” surprises, and if this conversation sparked a new idea, share it with a friend. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us: what’s the one sound you can’t forget?

To learn more about The Lincoln Theatre visit:
https://www.TheLincoln.org/
The Lincoln Theatre
117 E. Main Street
Marion, Virginia 24354
276-783-6092

How Is The Lincoln Theatre Approaching the Economic Inflation's Impact on the Arts?

A 1929 showplace doesn’t survive by luck—it survives by smart choices, open books, and a community that shows up. We sit down with executive director Bob Watkins to unpack how The Lincoln Theatre is meeting inflation head-on while keeping tickets within reach and the calendar full of can’t-miss performances.

We start with the financial reality behind the curtain: touring costs have climbed, and those increases traditionally land on venues through high guarantees. Bob explains how we’re shifting to gate splits that share risk and reward with artists—often a 70–30 split after expenses—so no one sinks when sales soften. That model lets us set fairer ticket prices, grow audiences, and still cover the real costs of bringing world-class talent to a small town. It’s a practical framework grounded in trust, transparency, and the belief that live arts should be accessible even when budgets tighten.

Because the Lincoln is a nonprofit stewarding a 1929 building, we also get into the unglamorous expenses that never make the poster—HVAC failures, repair spikes, and the capital needs of a historic venue. Community support through Friends of the Lincoln, fundraisers, and local partnerships helps us bridge the gap without passing every cost to patrons. And yes, there’s plenty to look forward to: Ozark Jubilee brings Branson cheer and a veterans salute, Jimmy Fortune lights up downtown and our stage, and The Isaacs close the season with harmony and heart. With tickets typically around $29–$40, the value speaks for itself.

If you care about keeping the arts vibrant, this conversation shows exactly how venues and audiences can work together to make it happen. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who loves live music, and leave a review with the show you’re most excited to see. Then grab your seats at thelincoln.org and we’ll save you a spot.

To learn more about The Lincoln Theatre visit:
https://www.TheLincoln.org/
The Lincoln Theatre
117 E. Main Street
Marion, Virginia 24354
276-783-6092

Let's Talk to Board Chair, Suzanne Jennings

A historic stage can change a town, and The Lincoln Theatre proves it. We sit down with Board Chair Suzanne Jennings to uncover how a 1929 landmark found new life in 2006—and why careful governance, relentless fundraising, and genuine hospitality keep it vibrant today. From the first capital campaign to a steady stream of returning patrons, Suzanne shares the choices, people, and values that turned a restoration into a regional cultural draw.

We talk through the nuts and bolts of arts leadership: what a committed board actually does, how a business-focused executive director strengthens operations, and why attendance, accountability, and donor trust matter as much as the performances themselves. Suzanne explains the criteria for joining the board—community service, reliability, and an understanding of the theatre’s civic role—while offering a realistic view of fundraising, event support, and the everyday work that keeps lights on and seats filled.

Beyond the curtain, the Lincoln has become a catalyst for downtown Marion. A restored hotel, new restaurants, and growing small businesses now thrive alongside a venue that welcomes patrons with popcorn, a friendly bar, and ushers who set the tone for a great night out. It’s the kind of hospitality that turns first-time visitors into regulars, and regulars into champions. If you’ve ever wondered how historic preservation, live entertainment, and local economy intersect, this story is your blueprint—and your invitation.

Love conversations about arts leadership, historic theatres, and community impact? Follow the show, share this episode with a friend, and leave a review to help more people discover The Lincoln Theatre’s story.

To learn more about The Lincoln Theatre visit:
https://www.TheLincoln.org/
The Lincoln Theatre
117 E. Main Street
Marion, Virginia 24354
276-783-6092

Let's Meet Shaly Farmer, Lighting Technician With The Lincoln Theatre

What happens when the lights go down and the spotlight comes up? Behind every perfectly illuminated performance at The Lincoln Theatre stands Shaly Farmer, whose artistic vision transforms the historic stage into a canvas of light and shadow.

Growing up in Marion, Shaly remembers visiting The Lincoln during its renovation period, never imagining she would one day control its lighting board. Her path took an unexpected turn during college when a required technical theatre class sparked a passion that would define her career. "I can't imagine what my life would be like not doing lighting," she reveals, describing her journey from spotlight operator to head electrician and beyond.

The conversation illuminates the vastly different approaches required for various performances. For concerts, Shaly often improvises on show day, creating atmospheres that complement the music and energy. Theatrical productions demand meticulous planning with scripts analyzed weeks in advance, while dance performances focus on highlighting movement rather than faces. Each discipline requires unique technical knowledge and artistic sensibility.

Perhaps most fascinating is how Shaly navigates the challenges of working in a historic venue with vintage equipment. When touring performers expect high-tech moving lights and find themselves in a theatre running an ETC Express board ("something you learn about in lighting history class"), Shaly's creativity and problem-solving skills shine. The Lincoln has embraced some modern innovations like wireless DMX systems and color-changing LEDs, creating a bridge between preservation and progress.

Whether you're a theatre enthusiast, aspiring technician, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes, Shaly's insights reveal the artistry that often goes unnoticed but fundamentally shapes our experience of live performance. Listen now and you'll never see a spotlight the same way again.

To learn more about The Lincoln Theatre visit:
https://www.TheLincoln.org/
The Lincoln Theatre
117 E. Main Street
Marion, Virginia 24354
276-783-6092

What's It Like To Volunteer As An Usher For A Lincoln Show? 

The curtain rises on a different kind of spotlight in this heartwarming conversation with Mary LeClaire, a dedicated volunteer usher at the historic Lincoln Theatre. While most patrons marvel at the 1929 Mayan revival architecture or the performers on stage, Mary reveals the magic happening in the aisles before the show even begins.

With genuine enthusiasm, Mary shares why volunteering as an usher creates meaningful connections within the community. "You meet an awful lot of new people, you see an awful lot of old friends, and you're giving back to the community," she explains, painting a picture of service that extends far beyond simply directing people to their seats. From safety training to mastering the art of creating warm welcomes, ushers like Mary preserve a level of personalized service rarely found in today's entertainment venues.

What stands out most in Mary's experience is how these volunteer positions foster unexpected joy. Whether it's shining a flashlight to guide patrons safely through darkened aisles, reconnecting with old friends who've come to see a show, or enjoying tribute performances that spark nostalgia for her own youth, the rewards clearly transcend the absence of a paycheck. Mary's involvement extends beyond ushering to include work with children's summer programs, demonstrating the diverse opportunities available for community members looking to support the arts in Marion, Virginia.

Ready to join Mary and the volunteer team keeping this cultural landmark thriving? Visit The Lincoln to discover how you can help preserve this unique theatrical experience where history and entertainment truly steal the show. By becoming part of this dedicated group, you'll not only witness remarkable performances but help create the welcoming atmosphere that makes The Lincoln Theatre a community treasure.

To learn more about The Lincoln Theatre visit:
https://www.TheLincoln.org/
The Lincoln Theatre
117 E. Main Street
Marion, Virginia 24354
276-783-6092

What's It Like Backstage At The Lincoln?

Step behind the curtain of Marion, Virginia's historic Lincoln Theatre as Executive Director Bob Watkins reveals what really happens on show day. This rare glimpse into the unseen world of theatre production transforms how you'll experience your next live performance.

While audiences enjoy a polished 2.5-hour show, Watkins and his team orchestrate a 14-hour symphony of preparation, from the morning's equipment load-in to the evening's final breakdown. Through intimate video footage, we witness sound engineers meticulously crafting the perfect acoustic environment, volunteer ushers preparing to guide patrons, and performers readying themselves for the spotlight. "Sound check is usually my most enjoyable part of the day," confesses Watkins, highlighting the raw authenticity of these pre-show moments.

The Lincoln Theatre itself stands as a magnificent example of Mayan revival architecture, dating back to its 1929 debut. Beyond the ornate murals that immediately capture visitors' attention, Watkins points to Lola's—the box office area named after the original mural artist—as an often-overlooked gem showcasing local artistic talent. This dedication to preserving heritage while creating vibrant contemporary experiences epitomizes the Lincoln's enduring mission.

The episode features electrifying performance clips from Landslide, a beloved Fleetwood Mac tribute band that consistently sells out the venue. The footage captures not just the musical magic but the special connection between performers and the Marion community—a relationship that continues after the show during merchandise table meet-and-greets. For Watkins and his team, these moments fulfill the purpose behind their exhaustive day: creating unforgettable experiences that keep patrons returning year after year.

Ready to experience The Lincoln Theatre magic yourself? Visit TheLincoln.org to discover upcoming performances or stop by 117 East Main Street to see this historic treasure in person. After watching this episode, you'll never view a performance the same way again!

To learn more about The Lincoln Theatre visit:
https://www.TheLincoln.org/
The Lincoln Theatre
117 E. Main Street
Marion, Virginia 24354
276-783-6092