IS THIS THE END? Eau Claire's historic downtown cinema, pictured, has been shuttered since a fire broke out this spring. Its doors are likely to remain closed, as current operator Micon Cinema announced its intent to list it for sale on Oct. 2.

After a 16-year run, local theater chain Micon Cinemas has announced its plans to sell the historic downtown cinema property at 315 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire.

In an Oct. 2 announcement made on social media, Micon Cinemas cited severe smoke damages from a fire earlier this year and struggles with the newly-implemented paid parking system as reasons behind the decision.

Earlier this spring, WEAU 13 News first reported a fire which broke out at adjacent shop B-Framed Galleries (313 S. Barstow St.), where emergency responders cleared patrons from the neighboring Mousetrap Tavern due to smoke concerns.

Since then, the downtown cinema remained closed.

In June, co-owner Connie Olson told Volume One conversations with their insurance company were ongoing. Most of the movies they had scheduled for the downtown location were moved to the Oakwood Mall theater.

Statement From Micon Cinemas - Oct. 2, 2026

“After careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to pursue the sale of our Downtown Cinema location following extensive smoke damage and ongoing challenges related to parking.

This decision was not made lightly. The Downtown Cinema has been a special part of our company and our community, and we will always cherish the memories we created there. We are grateful to everyone who has supported the cinema and made it part of their lives.

While this chapter is difficult, we are looking ahead and remain committed to creating exceptional movie going experiences to all of our Micon Cinemas guests. The memories made there will remain an important part of our story, and we look forward to continuing to welcome moviegoers to all our Micon theaters.”

This building has served as a movie theater for decades, starting with The Cameo Theater in 1946. It changed hands over the years and was owned by Grengs Theater before Mike and Connie Olson acquired it in 2010.

One of the last significant renovations to the “Art Moderne” style building was in 2022 when Micon Cinemas refurbished the building to add a kitchen.

Through ongoing renovations and leadership transitions over the years, documentation indicates the current iteration of the downtown theater have maintained the venue’s distinct “Art Moderne” styled architecture.

Following news of the listed property on Oct. 2, Volume One reached out to Connie Olson for further comment on damages and impacts of paid parking. She did not immediately respond.

 Micon Downtown Cinema has been home to many regional film festivals and showings over the years. MidWest WeirdFest, pictured above. (Photos by Luong Huynh)

This is a developing story with more updates from Volume One. Visit the Wisconsin State Historic Preservation Office webpage online to learn more about the 315 S Barstow St. property and Micon Downtown Cinema in Eau Claire.