RED BANK: BASIE CENTER & OCEANFIRST INK MOVIE HOUSE DEAL

New signage bearing the new name of Red Bank’s wonderful old movie house. (Photo by Brian Donohue)

The new moniker would certainly prove quite the mouthful for any would-be George Bailey running by shouting salutations to local landmarks.

But the deal marks an encouraging sign, that, in an era of uncertainty for movie theaters nationwide, Red Bankers will continue to have a an art house venue to take in Hollywood films, independent releases, classic films and, of course, the Rocky Horror Picture Show. And that, perhaps, those options are only going to now be even greater. 

(Oh and speaking of “It’s a Wonderful Life” the film is playing at the theater this Thursday.)

“The Basie Center Cinema House powered by OceanFirst Bank is an investment in both culture and community,” said Christopher D. Maher, OceanFirst Bank Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in the press release. “The cinema has been a special place for the Red Bank community for a long time and we are proud to be a part of its evolution.”

The Basie Center Cinema House first opened in 1971 and underwent several name changes before the Count Basie Center for the Arts acquired what was then called Bow Tie Cinemas in 2020.

Here’s more from the press release: “Since then, it has become a home for independent films, festivals, educational programming, and community events. The venue also hosts private rentals, parties and special events like live radio plays. The renaming and revitalization come as part of the Basie Center’s yearlong Centennial Celebration, marking the organization’s 100 years in Red Bank.”

“OceanFirst Bank shares our belief that an independent movie theater is an important part of Red Bank’s charm and sense of community. This partnership reflects the commitment of our board, our supporters, and OceanFirst Bank to not only preserve the cinema, but to make it accessible to everyone, ” said Adam Philipson, President and CEO of the Count Basie Center for the Arts.

“The rebranding will help us reimagine the Cinema House as an even more welcoming space, where we can present festivals, new releases, retro programs, educational offerings and more. We are grateful for OceanFirst Bank’s support and for the thousands of patrons who come through our doors each year and make this space come alive as a true art house.”

In addition to the corporate sponsorship, a separate philanthropic grant from the OceanFirst Foundation was recently awarded to the Basie Center to support its workforce development program, which provides economic empowerment and inclusive opportunities to the bilingual, Spanish-speaking community in Monmouth County. The foundation has been supporting this program since its launch in 2024.

“At OceanFirst Foundation, we’re proud to continue our support of the Basie Center’s workforce development program – a powerful initiative that opens doors and creates pathways to success,” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director, OceanFirst Foundation. “The Basie Center’s dedication to fostering inclusive opportunities has delivered meaningful impact, and we’re honored to help sustain and grow this important work.”

“Partnerships like these are essential to our work as a nonprofit organization, said Jeremy Grunin, Chair, Count Basie Center Board of Trustees. “The upgrades to the Basie Center Cinema House and the investment in our workforce development program demonstrate what is possible when mission-driven organizations and community-minded partners come together.” 

For more information about the Basie Center Cinema House, including information about upcoming movies and tickets, visit thebasie.org.