Utep Union Cinema

You know, it's crazy... I've taken classes inside the Cinema and I've even attended events, but I've never watched a movie here (which they do show movies here weekly for the cheaps). One day.It's no Alamo Drafthouse, but the seats are comfy and they all have those slidy desks that are way to tiny for note taking, but ideal for holding popcorn and drinks. Based off of the projector that they use during the classes, it's pretty big so if you went for movie reasons I think any seat would be fine (but towards the front would be ideal).The Cinema doesn't offer food per se, but you're super close to a lot of food options (Pizza Hut, the cafeteria, Chick-fil-A, etc. etc.) and as far as I know you can take food and drinks in there.If you're wondering about parking, pay the couple of bucks and park at the parking garage. Every time I've gone for an event that's specifically in the Cinema, they usually offer free parking in the garage anyway (I don't think they do that for the movies though).

The dinner theater is absolutely something everyone should experience at least once, especially if you're an El Paso native. It's such an unique experience to have a meal and watch live theater in one night. It really brings a nostalgia kinda feel and you can really experience what life was like before film.I'll admit the food is not the very best you can get but it's also not the worse. You usually get a 3 course meal, complete with dessert and coffee. I've been to the dinner theater for a couple of shows and the food has been good, usually a classic chicken and potatoes kinda meal. The dessert those past time was an exquisite chocolate cake. All food is served on UTEP embossed china, which is a nice little. detail touch. Then there is the seating in which you can really meet some interesting people! All tables seat 4 so if you're a group of 2, you'll be sitting with 2 others you may not know. This may make some hesitant but it's actually a nice little treat to the night. I've never gone and not have great conversations with fellow dinner guests.The theater cast is always great and well deserving of a house, standing ovation! Lés Miserablés was the latest show I saw and the entire production was superb. I actually sat in one of the front tables (a first) and it totally changed the experience with me really feeling like I was actually in the show!! haha I can't wait till I have time between semesters to return!