Keystone Cinema will close following SCU's purchase of the building.

The future of Steinbach's only theatre is still up in the air. 

Last week, movie goers voiced their opinions and concerns on this very website and on our Facebook page.  Now, owner Peter Schellenberg is expressing his feelings of sadness about the sale. 

Schellenberg says when he was originally approached to sell by Steinbach Credit Union, his initial answer was 'no way'.  But, after SCU wouldn't take no for an answer, he says the eventual decision to go through with the sale was not an easy one.

"It is very sad that we are closing.  We are not 100% sure if we are opening up again or not.  It all happened so fast....in a matter of two weeks from start to finish.  It started out me saying 'no, I am not selling, it has to stay'.  But in the end, the decision to sell was one that was best for me, even though I am not happy about that decision."

Keystone Cinema has been a Steinbach icon since 1969.  It is not only frequented by local residents but also people from outlying communities.  Many people have asked about the possibility of a Cinema City or Cineplex complex coming to Steinbach.  When contacted, Cineplex Director of Communications Kyle Moffatt said there has been no talk to date.

Schellenberg says while the Main Street location will be shutting its doors, there may be a re-location down the road.  He says he is just not sure about the future of the film industry in a city this size.  He adds that will be one factor that will play into his decision whether or not to re-open elsewhere.  That decision won't come until he does some number crunching.  He says then he will be in a better position to make a choice.

Schellenberg says they are hoping to remain open until at least April 1st, 2012.  After that, it's completely up in the air.

For information about the theatre go to www.keystonetheatre.ca