Movies haven't played at the Paula Theater in Mount Pleasant, North Carolina since closing in the mid-1950s, but plans are now afoot to make it into a music venue.

Located about 30 miles northeast of Charlotte, the movie theater originally opened in 1948. According to recent news reports (see list below), the building will be restored and it will be renamed to the Avett Theater. Its name references the Avett music family, which has called Mount Pleasant home since 1947. The most recognizable family members are Seth and Scott Avett, founders of The Avett Brothers band.

The renovation project is outlined on the theater's website, which describes their plans for a mixed space that can seat 35-600+ people and will serve as a space for the community to hold town meetings and other events. The website lists "live music, theater, film screenings, dance performances, and spoken-word events," so there's hope that movies could be showing in Mount Pleasant once again!

The project was kickstarted by the donation of the theater building to Mt. Pleasant Theatre, Inc. by a group of local business leaders. They are accepting donations with a host of sponsorship levels to raise $3.6 million.

They are hoping to open the Avett Theater in 2027.

Related News Articles

• Historic venue restoration project reignites Mount Pleasant’s revival -- North State Journal [Mar 12, 2026]
• Historic Mount Pleasant theater set to be restored, renamed for Avett family [w/ video] -- WSOC-TV [Mar 11, 2026]
• Historic Cabarrus County building to become theater named after Avett Brothers’ family -- Queen City News [Jan 22, 2026]

Where to Watch Movies on the Big Screen

Moviegoers in the area will need to visit one of the other nearby theaters, including the Southeast Cinemas - Carolina Mall in Concord, the Gem Theatre in Kannapolis, and the Southeast Cinemas - Eastgate Cinemas in Albemarle.