The nationally- recognized Sellersville Theater in Sellersville, Pennsylvania continues its annual tradition of the showing of Frank Capra’s well-known Christmas classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The event is intended for those of all ages looking for a family-friendly outing, or simply some extra Christmas cheer. The showing of the film will happen twice on December 19 and 20, both at 7:30 p.m.

The two-hour ten-minute film starring James Stewart and Donna Reed is known for its heartwarming message, following the chaotic life of George Bailey, a man with the intention of seeing the world with his free time. His dream is cut short by the unexpected death of his father which forces Bailey to inherit his father’s position. George’s guardian angel, Clarence, shows him what the world would be like without George Bailey as part of it. Bailey knows his life as fruitless, but after discovering the importance of his position, he turns his outlook on life into one full of family and friends, but most importantly, Christmas spirit.

The tradition of showing It’s a Wonderful Life, in particular, began in 2008. Other movies, such as the recent showing of Mel Brooks’s “Young Frankenstein” in late October displays the Sellersville Theater’s effort to reestablish its past of frequent movie screening. Rachel Reifinger works in the Marketing department at the Sellersville Theater and occasionally assists in the Box Office. She takes part in designing the free movie flyers released to the public. Reifinger says that the free movie events help “connect to our past” and the tradition of frequently offering public film screenings. Membership Coordinator for the Sellersville Theater, Jamie Swantek, agrees with Reifinger that this event is by far one of the most populated events of the year. Swantek explains that people planning to attend free movies “don’t really get that it’s free.”

Seating for It’s a Wonderful Life is first come first serve for general admission and reserved for those with reservations for dinner at The Washington House Hotel and Restaurant prior to the film screening. It is advised by Sellersville Theater staff that arrival to the theater is early to guaranteed seating. A food collection will be provided at the front door. All donations will be given to the Pennridge FISH organization.

At its founding, the Sellersville Theater was originally known for many things, including a horse stable, tavern, and movie theater. Nowadays, the Sellersville Theater makes an effort to replicate and display its unique past. In 1950, originally an old stable building, it became the “Selvil Theatre,” intended for film screening.

After repair, “Cinema 1894” opened in 1972.  After a series of fires in the following years, Cinema 1894 was renamed the “Sellersville Theater 1894” as it is known today. The Sellersville Theater is in working union with The Washington House Hotel and Restaurant, allowing guests the easy access experience to enjoy both venues in unison with one another.

The Sellersville Theater continues to offer the public free movie opportunities, such as Jon Favreau’s “Elf” on Christmas Eve. Other events at the theater include live music performances and comedy sets. Further information regarding upcoming events and contact information can be found on the Sellersville Theater website.