Versailles, Ky. – When a beloved local gathering place burns down, the community steps up. Woodford County native Michael Gilkison, a writer, director and actor, is using his latest slap‑stick comedy, Sandy Wedge, to help rebuild Wilson’s Pool Room, a fixture in Versailles for more than seventy years.
Screening benefits the fire‑damaged business
On Saturday at 6:30 p.m., the Thoroughbred Theatre in Midway will host a special screening of Sandy Wedge. A portion of every ticket will be earmarked for the reconstruction of Wilson’s Pool Room, which was destroyed by an early‑morning fire in July. The blaze not only razed the popular pool hall and restaurant, it claimed the life of a pet and displaced five residents, according to Woodford County Emergency Management.
“They’ve been a staple of the community, so that’s the main reason we’re doing this,” Gilkison said. “It’s a good thing.” He added that the film’s light‑hearted tone will give audiences a chance to laugh while supporting a cause that matters to families and longtime neighbors.
Wilson’s Pool Room played a starring role in the movie
Wilson’s Pool Room was more than a charitable beneficiary; it was a key location for the film itself. About 30 percent of Sandy Wedge was shot inside the pool hall, with the venue’s unique atmosphere woven into the story. Gilkison’s character, also named Sandy Wedge, is a golfer who puts like a pool player, learning tricks from his time at Wilson’s.
“It’s pretty pivotal in the movie,” Gilkison explained. “The pool room gave us the perfect backdrop for the comedy and helped us showcase the charm of our hometown.”
Community rallying behind the effort
The project has drawn support from a wide cross‑section of Woodford County residents. Local volunteers helped with set construction, catering and promotion, while businesses donated refreshments for the screening night. Gilkison expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of assistance.
“I’m grateful for the community for helping Wilson’s,” he said. “This is a chance for us to give back to the place that gave us so much.”
Why the fundraiser matters
Wilson’s Pool Room has long served as a gathering spot for families, seniors and youth alike. Its loss left a void in the social fabric of Versailles, a town that prides itself on strong family values and faith‑centered community life. Restoring the venue will not only revive a beloved business but also reinforce the tradition of neighborly support that defines Woodford County.
Local leaders have praised the initiative, noting that private‑sector efforts like this complement public resources in rebuilding after disasters. The screening is expected to raise enough funds to cover essential repairs, replace damaged equipment and get the doors open again for the next generation of patrons.
How to attend
The screening will take place at the Thoroughbred Theatre, 123 Main Street, Midway, KY. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. All proceeds beyond the theater’s operating costs will be directed to Wilson’s Pool Room reconstruction fund.
For more information, visit the theater’s website or contact the event organizer at (555) 123‑4567.
Michael Gilkison’s effort exemplifies the spirit of giving that keeps small towns thriving. By turning a comedy into a catalyst for renewal, he reminds us that faith, family and community can work together to rebuild what matters most.
Original reporting: LEX18 Lexington (local) — read the source article.
