There’s something special about watching your film on a real screen. Not a laptop. Not a conference room projector. A true theater screen with dimmed lights, popcorn in hand, a drink at the bar, and a crowd reacting together.
If you’ve ever dreamed about hosting your own movie premiere or film screening in Cincinnati, The Woodward might be exactly what you’re looking for. Because here’s the thing. We’re not just an event venue. We’re a working, historic theater… and movies belong here. (And we love showing the projects other spaces won’t.)
A Theater Made for Filmmakers
The Woodward has been a gathering place for performance and storytelling since 1913. Today, that same energy carries into the films we host.
We regularly screen:
Independent feature films
Documentaries
Short films
YouTube and web series premieres
Film festival selections
Local and first-time filmmakers
If you made something you’re proud of, we want to see it on our screen. We’ve even partnered with local festivals like Cindependent and The Hump to showcase bold, creative work that deserves a real audience.
Not every film fits the multiplex, and not every story should. Some need the historic and authentic space that we have to offer.
Yes, It’s a Real Movie Theater Setup
This isn’t a makeshift screening. We have a commercial-grade projector and full-size theater screen that can handle first-run films and professional video formats. Your movie will look crisp. Sound will hit the way it’s supposed to. The experience feels legit, because it is.
The room seats up to 125 guests for screenings with zero obstructed views. Every seat is a good one. It feels like a premiere because it is one.
Make It an Event, Not Just a Screening
One of the best parts about hosting your premiere at The Woodward is that it doesn’t have to feel formal or stiff. You can actually make it fun!
- Guests can grab drinks at the bar.
- We’ve got popcorn.
- Hang out before and after.
- Turn it into a Q&A night.
- Host a cast party.
- Celebrate your team.
Just about anything goes! We love when filmmakers treat their premiere like a celebration instead of a presentation.
Ticket & Rate Details
Here’s where it gets even better. We offer low rental fees, and you sell tickets and keep the ticket revenue. So instead of paying a big venue cost and crossing your fingers, you can actually make money back on your screening.
Prices range depending on the film and organization. But think: A 125-seat screening sold out? That’s about $1500 in ticket sales. So you’re already in the green! It’s designed to be accessible for indie filmmakers, nonprofits, and creative projects, not just big-budget productions.
Want the best deal? Book a Monday or Tuesday. Those nights typically come with our lowest rental rates and are perfect for premieres, community screenings, or film club events. (Weekends are available too, but pricing may be higher depending on demand.)
We’ll work with you to find something that fits your timeline and your budget.
How to Book Your Movie Screening
It’s simple.
Contact us and tell us about your film and your idea.
What are you screening?
How many guests?
Do you want a Q&A or afterparty?
We’ll help you figure out the best setup and make sure The Woodward is the right fit for your vision. Reach out and let’s make it happen.