On May 9, 2023, this editorial was published by Vista Today. 

In celebration of National Nurses Week, nurses and health professionals can enjoy a free day at the movies at the Colonial Theatre.

On Friday, May 12, admission and a small popcorn are free for nurses with ID at 6 screenings of Sleepless in Seattle in the Colonial’s plush, cozy Berry Theatre. The 1993 romantic comedy-drama stars Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks.

Executive Director Jennifer Carlson was inspired to honor frontline health workers, and, with help from donors, the theatre hopes to offer more ‘free admission days’ for professionals throughout the year.

“Healthcare workers work tirelessly – the least we can do is honor them with time out from the world, on the house. Movies are a great opportunity to escape, and having a cinema nearby only makes it more enjoyable,” said Carlson.

National Nurses Week begins each year on May 6 and ends on trailblazer Florence Nightingale’s birthday on May 12. The American Nurses Association first celebrated the observance in 1896: just 7 years prior to the Colonial Theatre’s construction.

For tickets, click here or purchase the day of this event at the box office.

To make future initiatives like free admission for frontline healthcare workers possible, please consider making a tax-deductible donation.