Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA. August 26, 2025 – ArtsQuest’s Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas hosts the Second Saturday Family Matinee Series presented by Good Shepherd Rehabilitation. The film series brings the magic of the movies indoors with monthly family-friendly screenings designed for audiences of all ages.
“We at the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas want this series to be a series for all families,” said ArtsQuest’s Senior Programming Manager Anthony DeSanctis. “We have a great collection of titles that will appeal to multiple generations. Whether it’s a family favorite or a great movie that parents are excited to introduce to their kids for the first time, we feel this series can cast a wide net. Our goal is also to create fun, experiential events before each film that will help set the tone for the screening.”
Screenings are offered at 10 a.m. as a traditional showing, along with a 10:30 a.m. sensory-friendly screening featuring adjusted lighting and sound levels, open captions and a welcoming environment designed to make the moviegoing experience more accessible and enjoyable for all guests. Each event features a fun and affordable morning at the movies, complete with crafts and interactive activities that extend the experience beyond the big screen!
“We’re excited to partner with ArtsQuest in providing children and families with a sensory friendly screening option for some of the most popular movies in history,” said Michael Spigel, PT, MHA, Good Shepherd Rehabilitation’s president and CEO. “Making the movie theater experience accessible and welcoming to all is just another way that Good Shepherd has supported children with autism and other neurodivergent identities for decades.”
The series starts on September 12 and includes:
- “Paddington 2” – September 12
- “The Lego Batman Movie” – October 10
- “The Wizard of Oz” – November 14
- “The Polar Express” – December 12
About ArtsQuest
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences, using arts and culture as drivers of economic development in our urban communities. ArtsQuest supports this mission through performing and visual arts, film, arts education and outreach, youth programming and a wide range of cultural events, anchored by signature venues and initiatives including its flagship event, Musikfest; the ArtsQuest Creative Factory powered by PPL, a centerpiece for the Valley’s artistic communities; the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks; and the LVHN, part of Jefferson Health Turn & Grind Shop, an adaptive reuse project expanding space for programming, festivals, private events and nationally touring exhibits. ArtsQuest welcomes more than 2 million people annually, with nearly 40 percent of its programs free to attend, generating a regional economic impact of close to $193 million in 2025. ArtsQuest’s Re-Imagine That! Capital Campaign supports the continued growth of its mission to make the arts accessible for all.