Big crowds flocked to Selma’s Walton Theater Thursday night for the first showing of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”

It was the latest example of the community racing to the Walton for a big premiere. Earlier this year, the movie “Selma” was shown there for free. The Walton was also the only single screen theater to premiere the movie “Woodlawn” in October.

All of the excitement for the theater is an encouraging sign for its future in Selma. Earlier this year, the Walton reopened after being closed in December 2013.

If nothing else, Thursday’s premiere of the latest Star Wars movie was a reminder that there is a demand for a local theater in Selma.

Although the crowds won’t be as big for every new movie shown, we’re hopeful the community continues to take advantage of the theater. It’s much more accessible than driving to Montgomery and helps support a local business.

The Star Wars movie will be shown Saturday at noon, 2:45 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. and Sunday at 4:30 p.m.

For more information about the Walton Theater, including showtimes and tickets, visit www.waltontheaterselma.org.