Millville’s historic Levoy Theatre is preparing for a major cultural celebration this fall. On Friday, September 19, 2025, the beloved South Jersey venue will host the world premiere of Applause: The Levoy Theatre Documentary, followed by the opening night of the CUT International Short Film Festival. The event doubles as an anniversary party, inviting film lovers, supporters of the arts, and local history enthusiasts to take part in an evening that celebrates both the past and the future of cinema in New Jersey.
The night begins at 6:30 p.m. with an anniversary party in the mezzanine, where guests can mingle, enjoy refreshments, and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of the theater’s storied history. At 8 p.m., the curtain rises on ArtC’s documentary Applause – The Story of the Historic Levoy Theatre. This film explores the theater’s remarkable journey, from its beginnings in 1908 as a Vaudeville and silent movie house, to its Warner Brothers era in the late 1930s, through years of decline and closure in the 1970s, and finally to its inspiring revival led by the Levoy Theatre Preservation Society in the 1990s. Today, the Levoy has been fully restored as a state-of-the-art performance venue, but its story of survival and community spirit is one that continues to resonate across South Jersey.
Following the documentary, audiences will be treated to the first night of the CUT International Short Film Festival, running from 9 to 10 p.m. The festival showcases a curated lineup of thought-provoking, creative, and globally recognized short films, shining a spotlight on independent filmmakers and their innovative storytelling.
Tickets for the full anniversary celebration, including the party and documentary premiere, are priced at $90 per person. For those who prefer to attend only the documentary screening, tickets are available at $18 each. Both options provide access to the CUT International Film Festival screening later in the evening, giving guests the opportunity to experience an entire night dedicated to film and culture.
The Levoy Theatre itself is as much a star of the night as the films being shown. Situated in the heart of downtown Millville, it has long been a hub for the region’s arts scene, anchoring the Glasstown Arts District and helping to position Cumberland County as a cultural destination. The documentary captures not just the theater’s history but also its impact on the community—how it has drawn people together for over a century and remains a beacon for live performances, film, and the arts.
For those who love film festivals, this event is more than just a local celebration—it’s part of a broader tradition of cultural programming across the Garden State. New Jersey’s film festival circuit continues to grow, bringing global voices to local stages while spotlighting the state’s own talent and creativity. More film-related events can be explored through our film festivals guide, offering a full calendar of screenings and premieres happening throughout the year.
With its mix of history, artistry, and community spirit, the Levoy Theatre’s anniversary event is poised to be one of South Jersey’s cultural highlights of 2025. Whether you’re a longtime supporter of the arts or someone discovering the magic of Millville’s historic venue for the first time, September 19 promises an evening of celebration, storytelling, and applause well deserved.
