The Colonial Theatre

Great historic theatre! This is an interesting multi-​purpose space with live touring shows, A regular movie schedule and they also host large community productions. Great staff, and in the heart of downtown Keene. NOTE: Balcony and mezzanine seating typically has less leg room than orchestra!

Went recently to a concert. Terrible sound system. Unless you are in the orchestra section, it is impossible to hear well. Acoustics are dreadful.
There is no place to wait that is comfortable or has seating until the doors open. This is a problem for people who are unable to stand in the slanted-​floor outer lobby for long periods of time (upwards of ½ hour).
Balcony area is very warm– wear layers to allow for this. Seats are tiny, poorly designed and several were broken but no alternatives were offered to our group who had to make do with broken seats. Plan on this if you have a back or hip problem that worsens in seated positions. .
The balcony IS NOT for anyone with any disability. Steep, narrow, dark stairs that are not for the faint of heart — if you worry about evacuation in a fire, DO NOT sit in the balcony. This is especially important since we saw no sprinkler system.
That being said, the tickets, while not cheap, are also not expensive for some world class performers. Just know what you are getting into,

I’ve enjoyed some great shows here. Intimate

I’ve only ever seen movies here, and that can be a mixed bag.
The selection is usually quite good. The Colonial tends to get quality indie and foreign films, though the occasional Disney feature (they played The Secret World of Arriety) makes it’s way onto the screen sometimes.
Unfortunately, their sound system is terrible. I believe it’s just one big speaker they place behind the screen. The sound ends up either echoing around the theater or feeling muffled and soft. With most foreign films you at least have subtitles, but it gets to be a pain if you’re trying to understand dialog in an understated comedy or a loud action flick.
Ticket prices are good, as are the concessions. The theater itself is nice, but the sound just doesn’t work. Definitely go to check it out if you’re a film lover, especially if they’re showing a subtitled foreign film.