GLASGOW, Ky. — Glasgow’s movie theater could soon undergo its biggest transformation since opening nearly three decades ago.

A local development group has signed a purchase agreement to acquire Marquee Cinemas on Happy Valley Road and convert it into a luxury theater featuring reclining seats, upgraded technology and expanded concessions.

According to a Thursday news release, Glasgow businessman Larry Glass is partnering with the majority ownership and management team behind Crowne Pointe Theatre in Elizabethtown on the proposed redevelopment.

The deal is expected to close within the next 60 days.

If completed, the project would renovate the existing theater at 2400 Happy Valley Road rather than replace it, with developers promising a movie-going experience comparable to larger cities while continuing to offer first-run films in Glasgow.

“Marquee Cinemas has done an outstanding job serving this community for many years,” Glass said. “Our goal is not simply to renovate a building. Our goal is to build upon that success and create a theater experience that residents of Glasgow, Barren County, and the surrounding region will be proud to call their own.”

The renovation plans include luxury reclining seating, reserved online ticketing, self-service ticket kiosks, upgraded digital projection and sound systems, self-service concession stations and expanded food and beverage options.

Developers also plan to renovate the lobby, update the building’s exterior, improve parking areas and upgrade other customer amenities.

Marquee Cinemas will remain open through the summer while showing first-run movies. Following the close of the sale, the theater will transition to the new ownership group for renovations.

Developers are targeting a mid-spring 2027 reopening.

The project brings together Glass and the ownership team behind Crowne Pointe Theatre, which has built a reputation for its luxury recliners, reserved seating and modern theater technology.

Jeff Farmer of eXp Commercial, who represented the transaction, said the “extensive and thorough” due diligence helped bring the agreement together.

“This transaction brought together a local developer with a passion for his hometown, an experienced theater operating team with a proven track record, and ownership committed to ensuring the property’s long-term success,” Farmer said.

Glass said the goal extends beyond upgrading the theater itself.

“Communities deserve more than just a place to watch a movie,” Glass said. “They deserve a destination where families can gather, create memories, and enjoy an experience that rivals what they might find in larger metropolitan markets. We believe Glasgow deserves that level of investment.”

Developers said the renovation represents a significant private investment in Glasgow and expect it to generate construction activity, preserve local jobs and draw visitors from surrounding counties.

“We appreciate the tremendous enthusiasm and support we have already received from residents throughout the region,” Glass said. “The response has confirmed what we believed from the beginning—people are excited about the opportunity to bring a world-class movie theater experience to Glasgow.”

Marquee Cinemas opened in April 1998 and has served as Glasgow’s primary movie theater for nearly 30 years.

Additional details on construction schedules, branding and grand opening plans are expected to be announced as the project moves forward.