(Oceanside) February 6, 2025 – With the support of a generous grant from Las Patronas, Oceanside Theatre Company (OTC) is thrilled to announce the introduction of a new state-of-the-art screen and film projector at the historic Sunshine Brooks Theater (217 North Coast Highway, Oceanside), marking an exciting new chapter in the theater’s history. This upgrade paves the way for Movies at The Brooks, a new film series debuting in February 2025. This initiative also brings the theater full circle, returning to its cinematic roots, which began in 1936 when it first opened as the Margo Theater.
The Sunshine Brooks Theater has long been a cornerstone of the Oceanside arts scene. Originally opened as the Margo Theatre in 1936, the venue was later renamed to honor Hattie Hazel Brooks, a passionate supporter of the arts. Over the decades, the theater has evolved from a movie house to a live performance venue, and today it stands as a vibrant cultural hub under OTC’s stewardship.
Expanding its partnership with the Oceanside International Film Festival, Movies at the Brooks will provide a platform for diverse stories and stories reflective of North County San Diego’s rich cultural tapestry. The series will showcase documentaries, classic films, skate and surf films, holiday favorites, Spanish-language cinema, and popular blockbuster films. By featuring films that resonate with the local community, OTC aims to foster cultural connection and celebrate the stories that unite us.
“The Movies at the Brooks series is another opportunity to celebrate storytelling and community at the historic Sunshine Brooks Theater,” said OTC Managing Director Alex Goodman. “By showcasing a variety of films – including some filmed here in Oceanside – we’re excited to reflect the rich culture of our city while offering audiences a meaningful way to connect and engage. Being able to share movies with our community is not just a return to our historic roots, but a perfect enhancement of our current robust arts and culture offerings.”
The film series will debut with He Hawai’i Mau: Being Hawaiian Wherever We Are, a vibrant community celebration on February 9, 2025, from 2 PM to 5 PM, marking the first use of OTC’s newly installed screen and projector. This enriching event delves into the experiences of Native Hawaiians living in diaspora, featuring a panel discussion with Native Hawaiians from diverse backgrounds, cultural performances by local organizations, and traditional Hawaiian hula and music. Attendees will have a unique opportunity to explore how Hawaiians maintain cultural ties and foster a sense of belonging, no matter where life takes them. This free event is open to the community. Secure your seat by visiting OceansideTheatre.org.
Following the debut event, the new screen and projector will next be utilized during the Oceanside International Film Festival (OIFF), which runs from February 18–22, 2025. This continued collaboration highlights the strong partnership between OIFF and OTC, celebrating the power of film to connect and inspire the community. More information about the 14th annual Film Festival may be found at www.osidefilm.org.
ABOUT OCEANSIDE THEATRE COMPANY
Oceanside Theatre Company (OTC), the resident professional theater company operating the historic Sunshine Brooks Theater in downtown Oceanside, is a focal point of the Oceanside California Cultural District (OCCD). OTC’s mission is to produce professional theatrical, visual art, and musical productions for the entertainment and enrichment of the community, present educational opportunities in the arts for children and adults, and provide a safe, public venue for expansion of artistic endeavors in North San Diego County and greater Southern California. OTC produces a four-show mainstage theater season and a Music Series as well as music, theater, poetry, dance, film, and cultural events and classes in both the 198-seat main theater and adjacent Studio 219. Additionally, OTC is the steward of the Brooks Theater Gallery featuring revolving art exhibits year-round. An important part of OTC’s mission is inspiring and sharing the arts with local youth through the Youth Theater Program, which includes Summer Theater Camps, a Fall Youth Theater Program, and onsite After School Theatre Outreach Classes at local elementary and middle schools. To learn more visit www.oceansidetheatre.org or follow OTC on Instagram and Facebook @oceansidetheatrecompany.
