During the 1950s American movie theaters were still one of the most popular forms of family entertainment. The Shine Theater on South Street in Auburn, although closed for many years, is the only one in the city still standing to evoke memories of the good times we once had after leaving a quarter at the box office.

Movies were not the only form of entertainment found at the theaters. I remember seeing vaudeville actors at the Shine.

These were skilled comedians, who traveled from theater to theater, across the country, bringing their unique brand of humor to audiences anticipating the joy of laughter.

The Capitol Theater was on North Street, about where the HSBC bank parking lot is today. I don't remember it well, probably because I spent so much time at the other theaters, such as the Jefferson on Water Street, watching “Tarzan” and “Jungle Jim” films. Johnny Weismueller starred in both of these sagas of heroes of the African Jungle.

The Strand on State Street, was closed before my movie-going time, but the Palace on Genesee Street, where Wegmans wall is today, was going strong, and showing current hits.

There were other forms of entertainment at the theaters, especially for young people. After finishing a box of Jujyfruits or Good n' Plenty candy, you could tear off one end of the box and blow into it. It would make a loud and very distinctive noise, which could be used to show one's disdain for certain actors as they appeared on the screen, or as a general attention getter.

Throwing popcorn from the balcony was considered fun for some risk-taking youngsters, who were in danger of being trapped at the upper level by the theater ushers. These uniformed, flashlight-carrying custodians of propriety had low tolerance for disruptive behavior and would remove those who didn't follow “theater etiquette.”

Of course, the ushers weren't just theater policemen. They were courteous gentlemen or ladies, who would meet you at the top of the aisle and illuminate your way to a seat as if it were reserved just for you.

Where else could you get this kind of care and attention for a 25 cent admission fee?

Today, movies can be viewed at modern theaters, usually in shopping malls.

There are no ushers, just a ticket seller and a candy counter attendant.

After getting your ticket and popcorn and candy, you're on your own. I guess this works, but I sure miss the original architecture, the one-of-a-kind neon lights and the unusual, and dramatically designed, moving curtains.

If you have memories that you would like to share, please call me at 252-0544. See you at the movies.

Tom DeFurio is former town supervisor for Sennett