The F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts is proud to announce the installation of a brand-new, state-of-the-art projection system made possible through a generous donation from The Luzerne Foundation. The new Panasonic PT-RQ25KU Laser 3DLP Projector delivers stunning 4K resolution and an impressive 20,000 lumens, nearly three times brighter than the Kirby’s previous 7,000-lumen projector.
This significant upgrade ensures that audiences will experience films and multimedia presentations with unparalleled clarity, brightness, and color accuracy. The enhanced projection capability also allows the Kirby Center to meet modern touring standards, which previously impacted both operations and audience seating availability.
In recognition of this transformative gift, all films shown at the Kirby Center will now be presented on The Luzerne Foundation Screen at the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts.
Joell Yarmel, Executive Director at the F.M. Kirby Center said “This contribution represents more than just new technology, it’s an investment in the future of the F.M. Kirby Center. As an organization focused on arts education for children and families, while also maintaining our historic building, our resources are often a bit stretched. We couldn’t be more grateful and excited for this much needed upgrade.”
“The FM Kirby Center is such an amazing place and the Luzerne Foundation is so pleased to partner with them on the launch of this state-of-the-art projector” said David Pedri, President and CEO of the Luzerne Foundation. “This projector will enhance the viewing experiences of thousands of people” continued Pedri.
The new projector will enhance more than 40 film screenings annually, including the Kirby’s popular Classic Films Series, W. Curtis Montz Film Series, and the Honesdale National Bank Big Screen Summer Series, while also supporting performances that require high-quality video integration.
Announcing the 2026 Classic Films at the Kirby Series
Following this exciting upgrade, the F.M. Kirby Center is thrilled to announce the upcoming 2026 Classic Films at the Kirby Series, presented in partnership with Flashback Cinema. This beloved series brings timeless favorites back to the big screen, now brighter and more immersive than ever before.
All screenings will take place at 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
- May 13 – The Princess Bride (1987, PG, 1h38m)
A swashbuckling tale of adventure, romance, and humor as Westley sets out to rescue Buttercup, featuring unforgettable characters and endlessly quotable lines. - June 3 – Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989, PG-13, 2h7m)
Indiana Jones teams up with his father in a thrilling quest for the Holy Grail, blending action, humor, and iconic moments. - July 15 – Mary Poppins (1964, G, 2h19m)
The beloved Disney musical follows the magical nanny who brings joy, discipline, and unforgettable songs to a London family. - August 19 – Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980, PG, 2h4m)
The epic continuation of the original Star Wars trilogy sees Luke Skywalker train with Yoda while facing the dark power of Darth Vader. - September 16 – The Godfather (1972, R, 2h55m)
Francis Ford Coppola’s Oscar-winning masterpiece chronicles the powerful Corleone crime family in a gripping cinematic epic. - October 14 – The Shining (1980, R, 2h26m)
Stanley Kubrick’s chilling horror classic follows a family isolated in a haunted hotel, where terror slowly takes hold.
Tickets are available at kirbycenter.org or by calling 570-826-1100.
Stay tuned for upcoming season announcements from the W. Curtis Montz Film Series and the Honesdale National Bank Big Screen Summer Series, get ready for an unforgettable movie season!
