The iconic Pioneer Theater in Manteo, a beloved landmark in the Outer Banks community, has officially transitioned to new ownership. On February 14th, the historic cinema was purchased for $500,000 by a partnership of local families, the Basnights and the Hatchells, marking a new chapter for this cherished institution.
This sale follows the December announcement by previous owner Buddy Creef that the theater, a cornerstone of Manteo for over a century, would be closing its doors. Creef, who has maintained the theater as a family and community tradition, cited financial challenges in a changing entertainment landscape as the primary reason for the closure.
[]
Michael Basnight, representing the buyers, confirmed the purchase in an interview, assuring the community that the name “Pioneer Theater” would be retained. The new owners intend to honor the Creef family and the theater’s rich history by incorporating a museum-like element into the venue.
“What else would you call it if you are truly trying to preserve it and utilize all the good things that it has given to the community throughout the years, which has not just been movies but so many other resources?” Basnight stated, emphasizing the commitment to preserving the theater’s legacy. “We will be preserving it and all the things we’ve loved about it for 105 years and that starts with the name. It will forever be the Pioneer Theater.”
While specific plans for the Manteo Pioneer Theater are still under wraps, Basnight indicated that more details would be revealed soon. The focus remains on ensuring the Pioneer Theater continues to serve as a valuable community asset.
Buddy Creef explained that the decision to sell was not taken lightly. “For the past twenty years, the theater never made money. We would mostly break-even, make a little money here, lose a little money there,” he shared, highlighting the dedication to keeping his family’s tradition alive despite financial strains.
Creef noted that annual losses had reached approximately $50,000 in recent years. He attributed these losses to shifts in the film industry, evolving entertainment preferences, and increasingly busy lifestyles – trends that were amplified by the pandemic.
Despite the difficulties, Creef expressed relief and optimism about the future of the Pioneer Theater under its new stewardship. He stated that several potential buyers emerged after his closure announcement, but finding the right fit was crucial. For Creef, the Basnight and Hatchell families, with their deep local roots and longstanding connection to the Creef family, were the ideal choice.
“I feel very positive and very happy with the direction that this project is going. I’m happy as hell,” Creef declared, relieved that the Pioneer Theater would be entrusted to capable local hands. “Continuing it as we did it is no longer viable…I’m glad that we found somebody with local ties and local roots that is interested in carrying on and preserving the tradition of what we have done while always honoring the theater and our family.”
The community eagerly awaits further announcements regarding the future of the Manteo Pioneer Theater, confident that its legacy as a cultural hub in the Outer Banks will endure.
