 An evening fire at the park theater marquee has temporarily shut down that historic theater in Park Rapids. Haiti Clotter has the story. A trip to the movies usually consists of popcorn and entertainment. But then something happens that's right out of a movie scene. You smell something so you go outside and check it out. Came back in to check on the theater, went up and looked at the marquee and saw that there was smoke coming out of the marquee. Shortly before 7pm the Park Rapids fire department received a report about a marquee on fire in downtown Park Rapids. By then social media was buzzing taking pictures and video of the fire. At that time our people entered the building to seek the source of power to the marquee. They eliminated that source and began extinguishment proceedings. About 35 patrons were in this room watching Dunkirk when staff came in and told them they had to exit. Most of them exited to the front and out to the left away from the marquee. Within an hour the nearly 60 people inside cleared out. Wilson doesn't know the exact amount of damages including smoke damage in the lobby. But crews are already working to make the necessary repairs. Companies to come in clean and sanitize all the smoke from the building. Once we get that completed then we will reopen. A physical and thermal investigation determined the fire didn't extend into the building. Chief Hoffman says there have been fires on Main Street in the past and although this one isn't common it's still a concern. This marquee in my understanding was originally installed at around 1953 so it's considerably old. The fire is definitely related to the marquee itself. The neighborhood has rallied around their beloved Park Theater and are hopeful they can catch a movie on the silver screen soon. It feels great to have the community support. It's been overwhelming. Wilson has contacted two companies to get the marquee back up and running. In Park Rapids, Haiti Clauter, Lakeland News. And Park Theater may be ready to open its doors as soon as this Friday. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television. Thanks for watching.