Tuesday, May 20, 2025
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From IMAX to Indie Films: R/C Reading Movies is more than just a theater

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At the edge of the Penn Street Bridge—where visitors first cross into downtown Reading—R/C Reading Movies 11 & IMAX stands as a cinematic gateway to the city. Nestled beside the Miller Center for the Arts on the campus of Reading Area Community College, the theater isn’t just a place to watch movies; it’s a fixture in the cultural heartbeat of Berks County.

It’s also the only theater in the county to offer a full IMAX auditorium, delivering the kind of immersive experience that turns a night at the movies into an event. Whether it’s a major blockbuster, a visually stunning documentary, or a special IMAX re-release, the massive screen and advanced sound system create an unmatched experience.

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Comfort and Technology at the Core

All 11 auditoriums are equipped with stadium seating and high-back rocking chairs, giving moviegoers a clear view of the action from every seat. Wall-to-wall screens and a powerful HPS-4000 sound system with Dolby Digital make every screening—from quiet indie dramas to action-packed thrillers—feel cinematic in the truest sense.

Some titles are also available in 3D digital projection, and a range of special programming like Fathom Events and live broadcasts from the Met Opera bring even more variety to the lineup.

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A Festival and a Community Hub

Each fall, R/C Reading Movies serves as one of the select venues for the ReadingFilmFEST, a regional celebration of independent film that draws filmmakers and cinephiles from across the Mid-Atlantic. It’s another way the theater connects with the cultural life of the city beyond commercial releases.

Easy Access and Affordability

Convenience is central to the experience. With reserved seating, online ticketing, and three hours of free garage parking just steps from the entrance, it’s easy to plan a stress-free outing. The garage has even removed its gates—just bring your license plate number inside for validation and skip the hassle.

Bargain Tuesday is a crowd favorite, offering the week’s lowest ticket prices (excluding special events). Seniors, students, and active military can also take advantage of everyday discounts, making the theater one of the most accessible and affordable entertainment options in the region.

Inclusive Entertainment for All

To make movies more accessible, the theater supports the TheaterEars app, which offers real-time audio translations in multiple languages. For many families, it’s a simple innovation that allows multiple generations to enjoy the same film together—regardless of language barriers.

A Cultural Anchor in Downtown Reading

Located at 30 North 2nd Street, R/C Reading Movies 11 & IMAX is surrounded by signs of downtown’s ongoing revival. From public art to new restaurants and seasonal events, the area continues to re-establish itself as a destination. As a key piece of that puzzle, the theater continues to anchor the west end of the downtown corridor—offering both big-screen spectacle and small-town hospitality.

For showtimes, online ticketing, or special event listings, visit rctheatres.com or call (610) 374-2828.

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Jason Hugg
Jason Hugghttps://cityofreading.com
Jason Hugg, editor of Reading Magazine, is passionate about telling the stories of Reading, PA, highlighting the people, places, and experiences that make the city unique.
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