AUGUSTA, Kansas, Feb. 12, 2008 -- Before 20-screen multiplexes, Main Street theatres were the hub of social activity. Augusta was no exception, or rather, is no exception.

While other nostalgic theaters have long since closed, Augusta's is going strong -- thanks to some dedicated volunteers.

For a small Kansas community, Augusta has a surprisingly rich history of movie venues. A number of silent film theaters, nickelodeon parlors, 'talkies' and even a drive-in theater thrived throughout the 20th century.

The Augusta theater, built in 1935, was the centerpiece. It was built by a farmer-turned-real estate entrepreneur named Dave Bisagno and his wife, Aline.

After 50 years, attendance dropped and the theater went dark in 1985.

"When we first started investigating this back in the late 80's, we were hearing that people from back east were wanting to come and buy the theater to part it out for architectural salvage," said Bill Morris, president, Augusta Arts Council. "That was just something that we couldn't stand to let happen."

The Augusta Arts Council was formed, and using grants and interest free loans, purchased the building in 1989 for about $80,000.

"We refurbished the murals, we repainted all the decorative plaster -- rebuilt a lot of the decorative plaster -- replaced a lot of ceiling panels that had been damaged through roof leaks over the years before we put the new roof on."

The amazing art deco style is everywhere in The Augusta theater. In spite of its beauty and historic significance, the arts council struggles to keep the seats full so they've starting thinking outside of the box.

They have gone well beyond the original charter of just showing movies here. One weekend there'll be a jazz ensemble, another time a live stage play or even children's theater. But whatever you come to see here, it is guaranteed that you're going to step back in time.

"We've probably put close to a half million dollars in it."

Despite volunteers manning the antique carbon-arc projectors, attendance often falls short of paying for the cost of the films. For The Augusta to survive, they need a new generation of theater goers.

"It really is very important to educate them and let them know that this is a very special place and there aren't many left to experience this kind of entertainment."

If nostalgia isn't enough, try the price -- movies are still $5 and popcorn only $2. Now that is stepping back in time.