Two tech scene leaders are turning Wilmington’s Theatre N into ‘a cinema destination’

We recently hinted at a rebranding of downtown’s Theatre N and now we’re ready to tell you all about it. The Mill has taken over management of the theater, which was previously managed by the mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. The coworking space will keep showing art-house films at the theater, but it will also use the space to beef up its events offering.

“Our plan for Theatre N isn’t just to be Wilmington’s indy theater; we want to be a leader in the re-imagination of what an independent theater can be,” said Zach Phillips, who was approached by Mill founder Robert Herrera to be involved in the project. “[We want to] make Theatre N a cinema destination in the region.”
Given Herrera’s design chops and Phillips’ background — he’s the founder of video production house The Kitchen — we’d say the theater is in very good hands. It also comes with the added benefit of keeping on the theater’s institutional memory — in the form of original manager and film curator Bev Zimmermann. Theatre N is also bringing on technical director Bob Weir, formerly of The Playhouse on Rodney Square.

The Grand Opera House is already looking forward to cooperating with its new neighbor. “The Grand sees Theatre N as a wonderful asset to the downtown entertainment scene, and we’re happy to partner with The Mill and the Kitchen to maximize its impact,” said Executive Director Mark Fields.

For project schedules and ticketing information, visit the new Theatre N website, which is much better than the old website.