Alcoholic beverages might be available at more New Jersey theaters if a bill passed by a state Senate committee becomes law.
New Jersey law now allows non-profit corporations that conduct musical or theatrical performances in a theater with at least a thousand seats to apply for a special liquor license.
Senator Patrick Diegnan says his bill would lower the threshold.
“Theaters throughout New Jersey have been a real economic boom. And this will basically give the opportunity for a theater with a hundred seats or more, limited to the performance and two hours before or after, to be able to serve alcohol.”
Kaye LiCausi with the Coalition of Community Theaters says alcohol sales would enhance the impact non-profit theaters have on New Jersey’s economy.
“Each theater goer spends $31 on top of their ticket price. Local theaters have strong partnerships with local restaurants resulting in increased business around theater events, not competition.”
LiCausi says 24 small theaters from Hackettstown to Cape May would benefit if the measure is enacted.
The legislation would not apply to movie theaters.