First movie theater on Pine Ridge

1st movie theater opens on Pine Ridge reservation

By Kristi EatonMembers of the Oglala Sioux Tribe will finally be able to see the latest Hollywood blockbuster without leaving the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

The reservation's first movie theater opened Friday after three years of planning and construction. Previously, residents of the reservation who wanted to see a movie in the theater had to travel to nearby towns like Martin or Gordon, Neb., a difficult endeavor for those who don't have reliable transportation.

This week, residents will be able to travel to Nunpa Theatre in Kyle to see two first-run flicks—"Pitch Perfect" and "Paranormal Activity 4." The word "nunpa" means "two" in Lakota.

Owners say the theater will offer some much-needed source of entertainment on the rural reservation that spans about 4,000 square miles in southwestern South Dakota.Comment:  For more on Lakota business, see Lakota Casket Company and Economic Development on Pine Ridge.