The Neon

BOX OFFICE- In 2023, THE NEON movie theater sold 40,000 tickets to in-person screenings of over 70 different first run films, operating 365 days a year. These were independent, international, and documentary films. The notable quality of programming was affirmed by numerous Oscar nominations and awards. High quality viewing experience is paramount, providing state of the art laser projection and surround sound, upgraded seating, low audience disruption, and assisted devices (closed captioning, narrative description, hearing impaired). Ticket prices offered for matinee, senior, and evening general admission are lower than typical for the Dayton area. NEON Members receive $2 off general admission price. For each ticket purchased to a traditional in-person engagement, a large % royalty was paid to the film distribution company, a 2.5% commission was paid to an independent film booking agent, and a downloading or shipping cost was incurred for the delivery of the digital film content.

COMMUNITY PARTNERED SCREENINGS- In 2023, THE NEON hosted more than 100 special event screenings including Ohio premieres for more than 40 filmmakers. A number of film festivals were hosted including the Dayton Independent Film Festival, Dayton Jewish Film Festival, Out Here Dayton (LGBTQIA+) Film Festival, Summer Family Film Fest, Family Holiday Film Series, LunaFest, Trail Running Film Festival, and Paddling Film Festival. "Cult Movie Mondays" launched and brought in underground, fringe or cult classic cinema. Many events and festivals included engaging Q&A's with local and visiting artists, acedemics, celebrities, and historians. 260 teenagers attended a free movie as part of the annual MLK Day celebration. Over 560 children and their families attended free screenings of PBS Kids programming. On Sundays, the theater continued to host a non-denominational, inclusive worship service utilizing digital media on the big screen. Partners throughout the year included The Dayton Metro Library, PBS ThinkTV, The Dayton Art Institute, The Junior Leaguers of Dayton, Muse Machine, University of Dayton, Theatre Lab, Preschool Promise, The Miami Valley School, the Dayton Latvian community, Fi Yu Dojo, Scripted in Black, Sunlight Village, The Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton, Wright State University, and many more. Costs incurred by partners include full use of theater facilities and capablities including state of the art laser projectors, surround sound and PA system with microphones, spot lighting, multimedia options with dedicated internet, digital content review/conversion (screen test, sound check, and troubleshooting), website and social media promotion, outdoor patio and indoor lobby/reception area, ticket handling (in person and online sales, reserved seating, cash/credit option, check-ins), group rate refreshments, and fully staffed concession stand.

CONCESSIONS- In 2023, the theater's concession area continued to include a unique variety of refreshments that feature locally made favorites along side movie classics. Full Monday-Sunday liquor license and espresso bar help support the hospitality needs of THE NEON's community partnered screenings and special events. Freshly made popcorn, movie candy, and soft drinks are available at the lowest theater prices in town. Featured local offerings include gourmet coffee, craft beer, small batch vodka, chocolates, vegan cookies, and biscotti. Cost of goods increased drastically in 2023, decreasing the overall profit margin despite having implemented modest price increases.

Product & Merchandise- With the addition of a dedicated "Neon Merch" display area, the theater increased the sale of clothing and merchandise customized with THE NEON logo and mission moto, movie posters, and other promotional products including gift certificates/gift certificate income.

Online Ticket Surcharges- $1 is added to ticket price when purchased online through neonmovies.com website. The convenience of at-home advanced purchase of assigned seats for one-time screenings and special events has resulted in "sold out" shows days and even weeks ahead of time. Registered customers can process their own cancellations if needed. Each electronic transaction costs the theater a little over 5% in additional fees: 3% from the credit card processing company, 2% from the point of sale company.