Dear Editor,
Communal entertainment is ingrained in the very DNA of the human experience, and moviegoing is as much a part of Americana as apple pie and baseball. For generations, the local movie theatre has been more than a place to watch films—it has been a gathering place, a memory maker, and the beating heart of a community. When a theatre thrives, it reflects and reinforces the economic and cultural health of the town it serves.
Recognizing this truth, local businessman Eric Hanna took matters into his own hands and committed himself to reviving Dubach’s historic Gem Theatre. This project has been nothing short of a labor of love—one fueled by pride, perseverance, and a deep belief in the value of community spaces. As an independent theatre owner in Northeast Louisiana, it has been my honor to consult with Eric over the past two years and witness his vision steadily become reality. Throughout that time, he has shared countless stories of his town and this beloved theatre, and it was impossible not to hear the pride in his voice or see it in his eyes as he documented each step of the restoration.
As a fellow theatre owner—and as the immediate past president of the Tri‑State Independent Theatre Association—I want to personally congratulate Eric Hanna and his family on this remarkable milestone, not only for themselves but for the entire Dubach and Lincoln Parish community. The reopening of the Gem Theatre is more than a grand opening; it is a renewal of tradition, a boost to the local economy, and a reaffirmation of the value of investing in our hometowns.
I strongly encourage everyone in Lincoln Parish and beyond to support this historic theatre by attending movies, bringing friends and family, and making the Gem a regular part of your entertainment routine. Your patronage will ensure that this landmark continues to shine brightly and remain a vibrant cultural cornerstone for generations to come.
Congratulations on your grand opening and opening weekend. May the lights of the Gem Theatre stay bright for many years to come.
Sincerely,
Adam T. Holland
President, Holland Entertainment / Fiske Theatre
Former Mayor, Town of Oak Grove
