Operating Support

Programming goals are driven by our mission, vision and measurable outcomes: EHST will offer a variety of movies and cinematic events, make its venue available to community groups for performances and other events, and produce special live events to broaden its public offering. To assess outcomes, we use data such as ticket sales, # of diverse programs, and audience and artist feedback to inform decision-making. We use gained knowledge of the business to adapt approaches, e.g., first-run movies have exclusive use and extended-run requirements that cannot be met if special events are also scheduled. We make programming adjustments based on the cycle of our seasons and the schedules of other local events to avoid competing for ticket sales. We are committed to continuous improvement and financial sustainability: The board reviews operations budgets and program activities at every meeting; the theater manager attends all board and committee meetings. The board holds strategic planning retreats. Key strategies include: * Surveys - e.g., 1) feedback cards after each screening at the 2023 Film Festival were used to guide planning for the 2024 Film Festival; 2) we survey the public about concessions and make updates accordingly (e.g., the purchase of a self-serve butter dispenser) as evidenced by an EHST Facebook post by our theater manager May 30: "We are looking for opinions on potential new concession items this summer! We would love to hear your feedback! We have surveys available in the lobby!" * Open communication - We maintain open communication with constituents through friendly staff and approachable board members. Via our Facebook page, we encourage people to share their experiences and provide suggestions and recommendations, as evidenced by a Facebook post by our theater manager on July 13: "We have been hearing your requests for the movie 'Sound of Freedom' and are working behind the scenes to acquire this film at the theater!" * Data collection and analysis - We use Veezi (cinema management software) for performance dashboards and reports, to track program attendance and pre- and day-of-event sales, which helps us identify patterns and evaluate the impact of our marketing, programming, and concession sales. * Ongoing feedback - Staff seek input and guidance from board members and volunteers, who represent a cross-section of our community, on program/project ideas, implementation, and evaluation--and vice versa: Staff provide feedback to the board, etc. ; As a cultural hub of film, arts, entertainment, and learning, the Theater has helped make Ely a vibrant, healthy community, which provides economic, social, and cultural benefits to Minnesota. The renovation of the Theater revitalized the center of Ely and increased the aesthetics of "the top of Sheridan Street," a focal point for locals and tourists. The Theater employs 3 staff and through programming and services, generates revenue for artists. The Theater impacts local businesses by attracting people who eat, shop, and stay in town. Services and programs draw a diverse audience, fostering community engagement and contributing to an appreciation of the cultural heritage of the area. The Theater partners with local organizations and sponsors, creating revenue and recognition. Ongoing updates to the Theater's projectors and sound systems contribute to our audience's overall enjoyment of the arts and local businesses in the tech sector. More than just a cinema, EHST contributes to people's well-being.