Historic Downer Theatre in Milwaukee Acquired by Milwaukee Film

Cinema Operations Director Petey Balistrieri discusses the future plans for the 100-year-old movie house.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Wisconsin's oldest operating cinema, the historic Downer Theatre in Milwaukee, has been acquired by the non-profit organization Milwaukee Film. Cinema Operations Director Petey Balistrieri joined a local news program to discuss the plans for the 100-year-old movie house under its new ownership.

Why it matters

The Downer Theatre has been a landmark in Milwaukee's East Side neighborhood for decades, serving as one of the city's last remaining independent movie theaters. Its sale to Milwaukee Film, a local non-profit focused on promoting cinema, ensures the theater's preservation and continued operation as a community hub.

The details

Under Milwaukee Film's ownership, the Downer Theatre will undergo renovations and programming changes to modernize the historic venue while maintaining its classic charm. Balistrieri stated that the goal is to expand the theater's programming to include more independent, foreign, and documentary films to complement the traditional Hollywood blockbusters.

  • The Downer Theatre was acquired by Milwaukee Film in early 2026.

The players

Milwaukee Film

A non-profit organization dedicated to promoting cinema and film culture in the Milwaukee area, now the new owner of the historic Downer Theatre.

Petey Balistrieri

The Cinema Operations Director for Milwaukee Film, who discussed the plans for the Downer Theatre under the organization's ownership.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're excited to breathe new life into this iconic theater and continue its legacy as a community hub for film lovers in Milwaukee.”

— Petey Balistrieri, Cinema Operations Director, Milwaukee Film (wtmj.com)

What’s next

Milwaukee Film plans to begin renovations on the Downer Theatre in the coming months, with the goal of reopening the theater by the end of 2026.

The takeaway

The acquisition of the Downer Theatre by Milwaukee Film ensures the preservation of one of Milwaukee's last remaining independent movie theaters, allowing it to continue serving as a cultural and community hub for film enthusiasts in the city.