The owners of the iconic Varsity Theatre on Franklin Street are looking to raise $50,000 dollars to go digital.

As the movie industry switches from 35 mm film to digital formats, theaters across the country are forced to convert their projection equipment to keep up with the new technology. The Varsity owners say if they can’t make this switch, the 87-year old theater will likely go dark.

They’ve launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise $50,000 before the end of February, and so far, they’re off to a good start. Nearly four hundred backers have made pledges, bringing the total to slightly more than $25,000 to date.

Donations made so far range from $10 to $400 dollars, and each contribution comes with a reward, such as free popcorn, movie tickets, or a t-shirt.

Those who pledge above $400 are eligible for larger rewards including a placard, a year of free movies, or a chance to put a personal message on the theater’s marquee. But if the campaign doesn’t reach its full $50,000 dollar goal by February 15, the Varsity gets none of the money and backers forfeit their rewards.

You can find out more about the campaign and the history of the Varsity here.

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