Lights Out: Bergen County Movie Theater To Shutter After Redevelopment Decision

One of the last independent movie theaters in Bergen County is closing.

The Township Theatre.

In a message posted on Saturday, June 21, owners Dave and Laura Rose announced that the Township Theatre in Washington Township will permanently close on Thursday, July 31.

According to the proprietors, the retail complex has decided to demolish the movie theater in order to renovate the area.

The scope of the redevelopment was not immediately apparent.

In March 2021, Township Theatre reopened after being closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, it has evolved into more than just a movie theater. It has served as a community center for live comedy and music performances, birthday celebrations, school and scout club activities, and private screenings.

According to the owners, they made every effort to remain open.

The Roses noted, “We tried everything to work out a deal with the shopping center so we could keep running.” Unfortunately, they are still dedicated to their redevelopment plans in spite of our best efforts, thus the theater will eventually have to close.

In recognition of the theater’s strong relationships to the community, Township Theatre was selected as a 2025 finalist for Best Movie Theater in the Best of Bergen Reader’s Choice Awards.

Township was honored to maintain its position as one of the last independent cinemas in Bergen County after Ridgewood Movie Theater closed its doors in January 2024, they added.

The message ended by saying, “There’s still time to see a movie with us before we close.” As we bid you farewell and express our gratitude for being a part of our narrative, come out, grab some popcorn, and take in the magic of the movies in July.