Theater Chain Wants to Sell Alcohol in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge's two AMC Theatres are seeking permission to sell beer, wine and liquor.

The two movie theater complexes would have to be rezoned to allow alcohol sales.

The chain, based in Leawood, Kan., sells alcohol at 50 other locations, including ones in Metairie and Harahan.

Baton Rouge's Manship Theatre in the Shaw Center for the Arts sells alcohol now. At least one other movie house sold alcohol in Baton Rouge in the past.

Metro Council members contacted by The Advocate were split on whether sales should be allowed.

Councilman John Delgado, who co-owns a downtown bar, says he has no concerns about allowing alcohol sales at movie theaters.

But Councilwoman Ronnie Edwards says she fears alcohol sales will make the theaters unfriendly to children and promote rowdy behavior.