History of the Theatre
Built in the center of Peterborough by Charles Nichols in 1914, The Gem Theatre was one of the first movie houses in New Hampshire. It was the center of activity for the area, presenting both movies and stage productions throughout the first part of the century. A fire in February 1945 gutted the building and it was rebuilt later that year and the name changed to The Community Theatre.
Through the 60's, the 550 seat theater was in high demand in the summer months presenting both films and concerts. In 1977, the name was changed to The Peterborough Community Theatre.
In 1984, the building was reconfigured to a 95 seat theater with the addition of the Hollywood Café. Bruce Hunter purchased the building in 1996 and refurbished it to its present configuration. The restaurant space and Bubinga Bar, first operated by the Marquee Grille are home to R. A. Gatto's Restaurant. A function room and gallery along with the Hunter Executive Suites occupy the second floor. The Peterborough Community Theatre in the back continues to provide first run movies and entertainment for the Monadnock Region.