Cool in the Summertime
 

   Cool in the Summertime El Raton Theater is a historical building that has been part of the heart of Raton's downtown since construction was completed in the 1930's. It recently celebrated its 78th anniversary in April, three days after its new owners purchased it. The new owners and good friends who purchased El Raton Theater are Kerry and Kristie Medina, Ted and Traci Kamp, and Neil and Donna Emiro. They took over ownership and reopened the theater three years after previous owners had closed it. The group felt very strongly that the town was in desperate need of a theater that would provide the community with good wholesome entertainment for individuals and families.

The Medina, Emiro, and Kamp families

   The 569-seat theater gained formal listing on the New Mexico State Register of Cultural Properties in August 2006 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in January 2007. On May 23, 2008, with much local fanfare, the movie reels began to roll again and the theater has since been a place where many families have come to grab some popcorn and watch a good movie and reminisce of days gone by. Although there continues to be some renovations needed to the building, business has been good and the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive and supportive.

   The theater also boasts a full stage and orchestra pit. Although they have not been used in the past, many creative plans for their use in the future are being considered such as concerts, plays and possibly classic movies. The owners see this business venture as an opportunity to help revitalize downtown Raton and hope that the excitement created by reopening the theater will reverberate throughout the community.