MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- The next time you’re enduring a safety stand down, take a moment to appreciate an adaptable and dependable building that has stood at attention for nearly 40 years.
The Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Training Center, better known as the base theater, is located at Building 1330 along Vandegrift Blvd.
Despite the building’s nickname, the theater serves Camp Pendleton Marines and sailors with more than just weekend entertainment.
Its dingy, grey color is the only boring aspect of the concrete structure. The unique complex includes stones that add texture to its outer skin and a roof that slants downward instead of running parallel with the ground.
With a seating capacity of 1,339, the theater has been an optimal venue to hold large-scale classes and training since it was built in 1970.
“We hold many events here, including weekly (Transition Assistance Program classes), monthly Corporals Course graduation ceremonies, and monthly range safety officer classes,” said Sgt. Nathan W. Uttech, MCB training center manager, Headquarters and Support Battalion. “Besides that, most units use the facility for safety stand downs or pre-deployment briefs.”
The theater has also been a hot spot for many Camp Pendleton special events. The 2008 Marine Corps birthday pageant was held there instead of the 11 Area Field due to inclement weather.
The theater has housed many celebrities and famous Marines such as when Gene Simmons filmed a segment for his TV show “Gene Simmons Family Jewels,” and when Sgt. Maj. Bradley Kasal spoke shortly after the book release “My Men Are My Heroes: The Brad Kasal Story.”
The theater is probably best known for its movies. Marine Corps Community Services shows recently released films Wednesday through Sunday.
Ticket prices are $3 for adults, $2 for children ages 14 to 17, and $1 for children 7 to 13. Balcony seating is $4 and children 6 and under are admitted free-of-charge.
All movies on Sunday, referred to as “See it again Sundays,” are free.
The theater also occasionally hosts early showings of new releases. Actors Ben Stiller, Jack Black and Robert Downey Jr. made a special appearance when their movie, “Tropic Thunder,” made a sneak peak at the theater. The trio stayed to sign autographs and answer Marines’ questions.
To view base theater movie times, go to the Camp Pendleton Web site, www.pendleton.usmc.mil, click on “Marine Corps Community Services,” then click on “Food and Entertainment,” and then “Movie Theater.” The theater opens 30 minutes before show times.
To reach the box office, call (760) 725-9217 or to reserve the theater for training, call (760) 725-4444.