By ALEXIS ZOTOS
6 News Reporter
HARRIMAN (WATE) - Opening night at the Princess Theatre in Harriman was both a blast from the past as well as the dawn of a new beginning.
"It's like a family reunion in here!" exclaimed one of the theater goers.
Both young and old gathered to witness the rebirth of one of the city's treasured landmarks.
"Of course I remember it when it was first opened. It was always a treat to go to the theater," said Virginia Blanchard.
The theater's manager, Megan Anderson, may be too young to remember the Princess Theatre in its glory days, but she is excited to be a part of its future.
"The hope is to really revitalize the downtown area and bring in new businesses," said Anderson.
And the goal to bring crowds downtown is working - opening night was packed and the show sold out in less than 3 hours.
"This is beyond what I could have imagined," gleamed Anderson.
The night's show was a mix of local performers including The Babahatchie Band, Bowers Elementary School Choir, Roane State Express and many others.
"We thought it would be nice if everyone was excited to see friends and family in the show," said Anderson.
And the community was out in full force, catching up and sharing memories.
The Princess Theatre's next show is Saturday and it too sold out in a matter of hours, showcasing the excitement over a new performance venue in town.
"I've been waiting for this to open for years. I would always drive by and think, 'Why isn't that open? Why do I need to drive all the way to Knoxville?" said theater goer Daniel Simpson.
Pictures, mementos and other memorabilia were on display from the past but it was the prospect of a new era that received the most applause.
The show sold out in less than 3 hours.
The night's show was a mix of local performers including The Babahatchie Band.
