The Leading Voice of Independent Theatre Owners
The Independent Theater Owners Coalition (ITOC) champions the advancement of independent exhibitors as the backbone of the cinema industry by fostering collaboration and advocating for pro-growth policies that drive innovation, build communities, and advance the moviegoing experience.
At CinemaCon 2024, ITOC hosted a seminar series at Caesars Palace. See pictures from the event below:
Independents Bring People Together
Small business and nonprofit cinemas are not just entertainment hubs that drive local economies, they’re vital cultural beacons that bring people together by offering a window to the wider world and fostering a sense of belonging and shared experience.
From rural towns to urban centers, ITOC members are deeply rooted in the communities they serve. NATO represents hundreds of independent movie theatres that offer the only cinematic experience for miles in small towns across the country.
Membership:
ITOC membership is open to all NATO member companies operating independently. This inclusive approach ensures a wide representation and diverse input from various independent cinema operators.
ITOC Leadership:
The coalition’s volunteer leadership is at the forefront of discussions and advocacy efforts for independent cinema operators within the industry.
Colleen Barstow
Chair
NATO Executive Board Member
ACX Cinemas
cbarstow@mainstreettheatres.com
Emelyn Stuart
Vice Chair
Stuart Cinema & Café
stuartcinemacafe@gmail.com
Paul Gunsky
NATO Executive Board Member
Cinelux Theatres
paul@cineluxmovies.com
Randy Hester
NATO Executive Board Member
Hometown Cinemas
randy@hometowncinemas.com
Joe Masher
NATO Treasurer and Executive Board Member
Scene One Entertainment
jmasher@bowtiemgmt.com
ITOC Events
ITOC convenes bi-annually, gathering in the spring during CinemaCon and in the fall at The Cinema Foundation Summit, to discuss advancements and challenges within the independent cinema sector. Additionally, ITOC hosts monthly member webinars that are designed to merge in-depth studio marketing presentations on the promotion of upcoming films with informative sessions on essential business strategies.
Contact Information:
For further details about ITOC and how to get involved, please reach out to Todd Halstead at ITOC@natodc.com.
