I have a new favorite date night activity: dinner and a movie! I know what you’re thinking—what’s new about that? But enjoying a full dinner with a movie is a new experience for me.
As with most families, we’ve popped in a DVD and gathered around the home screen to watch a movie with our dinner. Or, we’ve enjoyed hot dogs, popcorn and candy sitting in lounge chairs at the drive-in or on our laps in a regular theater. But, to snuggle into a big, cozy chair fitted with a serving table, order from a full-service menu and be served by friendly wait staff while watching the movie at the theater is a refreshing treat. And you can find it right here in the metro at the Warren Theatre in Moore.
A Blockbuster of a Theater
My husband and I have not been theater moviegoers in recent years as we have not found the movies to be the relaxing outing we hope for. For one thing, most theaters seem to cater to a younger (read: teenage) crowd. There’s nothing wrong with that, but not what we’re looking for on a date night. And with movies moving to DVD often within a few short months of their theatrical release, it can be easier to just wait.
On a recent Friday evening, however, my husband suggested a date night at the Warren Theatre. While this would require a 40-minute drive from our home in Edmond to Moore, we had heard so much about the Warren that we took the drive, and we were not disappointed. So, what’s the buzz about?
First of all, the Moore Warren is the first theater in the world to incorporate all Digital Cinema and THX technology (standards developed by George Lucas of Star Wars fame) as the ultimate movie-watching experience, according to their website. Secondly, each of the 14 auditoriums has comfortable accommodations with plush chairs, larger-than-life movie screens and great acoustics. Finally, the 1940s motif gives movie patrons the feel of entering the Hollywood glam era of Clark Gable, Humphrey Bogart, Marilyn Monroe, Joan Crawford… you get the picture.
Grand Auditorium and Director’s Suites
The balcony’s Oscar’s Lounge and the Director’s Suites offer an elegant atmosphere to relax before and after the show. The two Director’s Suites, the newest addition to the Moore Warren Theatres, offer intimate 30-seat and 46-seat home-theatre type accommodations with heated, reclining lounge chairs. Ah, all the comforts of home with the added luxury of full wait service.
While 14 theaters are open for patrons of all ages, the balcony seating and Director’s Suites are reserved for adults over age 21 only and are what give this theater its unique “date-night” status. Early reservations (often days in advance) are recommended for the balcony and Director’s Suites as they sell out quickly.
The Red Carpet Treatment
On the night of our date, my husband bought tickets online. Unfortunately, our first movie choice was sold out so we opted for the other balcony theater. Upon arrival and as first timers, we asked one of the staffers at the balcony level what the protocol was for ordering food and drinks. We were not expecting the red-carpet treatment, but we did receive it.
When the staffer learned of our disappointment of not seeing our first choice, he offered to see what he could do. Upon checking the seating chart and finding room, he offered to trade out our tickets for our first movie choice (and no, he was not aware of my “media credentials”). We were shown to our seats, given menus and instructions on how to push the service button located on our arm rests. I felt like a VIP.
In the comfort of our seats, we started out with an appetizer of potato skins and a glass of wine—all served before the movie started. During our feature, we ordered and split a California Wrap and two cups of chili. The food was delicious and surprisingly affordable.
G-Rated Options
Open to the public and movie patrons of all ages for lunch and dinner, the Warren Diner, located on the first floor, serves up the same delicious fare offered to balcony patrons including soups, salads, hot and cold sandwiches, burgers, pizzas and ‘40s style malts, root beer floats and sundaes.
Also on the first floor are a comfortable lounge area with a fireplace adjacent to the rest rooms and a large game room that features arcade games.
New IMAX Theatre
The Warren Theatres, based out of Wichita, Kansas, has seven theaters operating in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. The Moore Warren, their highest grossing theater, will soon have another option for patrons. An all-digital, 600-seat, IMAX theatre is scheduled to open in late February or early March, according to Dan Gray, Director of Operations. “The large IMAX screen engulfs you no matter where you sit,” explains Gray. “The idea is to make you feel like you are actually a part of the movie.” Also, the movies are not run by film, but completely with a high-definition digital projector for a very clear picture.
Whether for a date night or a family outing, the Moore Warren Theatre is a reason to rediscover what made a night at the movies a special treat.
About the Moore Warren Theatres
The Moore Warren Theatre is located at 1000 Telephone Rd, just off I-35. For movie listings, prices and information on special packages, call 405-735-9676 or visit www.warrentheatres.com.
Balcony seats are priced higher than regular movie tickets; $12 for matinees, $18 for evening shows. Director’s Suite tickets are $22.
The Moore Warren offers packages for birthday celebrations, field trips, and corporate functions. A “Theatre for Two” package is a great gift idea that offers movie tickets, best balcony seating, two entrees, dessert and two soft drinks for $79.
Karen Mitchell, a lifelong resident of the Oklahoma City metro area, lives in Edmond with her husband Mark, teenage son, Ryan, and one spoiled Welsh corgi. Daughter Megan attends OSU in Stillwater.
