Ballantyne's Strong Digital Systems Division Brings State of the Art Digital Cinema to Atlanta's Historic FOX Theatre; NEC STARUS NC2500S Digital Cinema Projector Installation Adds Digital Cinema to Theatre's Event Programming

Business Wire, June 20, 2006

OMAHA, Neb. & ATLANTA -- Ballantyne of Omaha, Inc. (Amex: BTN), a leading provider of motion picture projection, specialty lighting and digital cinema equipment and services, announced today that its Strong Digital Systems division has completed the installation of a state-of-the-art NEC STARUS(TM) NC2500S Digital Cinema projector at the nationally-known Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia. "The Fox" plans to debut its new digital cinema capability June 26 with the screening of The Chronicles of Narnia- The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

The NEC STARUS NC2500S is the world's brightest (Digital Light Processing) DLP Cinema projector. It was designed to deliver remarkable digital images, amplified brightness, sharper graphics and eye-catching color to large-sized screens such as The Fox's, which is 55 feet wide.

The Fox Theatre is an impeccably preserved, 4,500-seat landmark building that attracts nearly three-quarters of a million visitors a year to a variety of programming including concerts, Broadway, ballet, operas and films. "The Fox" has been designated a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Ed Neiss, General Manager of the Fox Theatre, commented, "We selected Strong Digital Systems because of their digital focus, commitment to quality and customer service and the strength of the NEC solutions they provide. We also know Strong is backed by Ballantyne of Omaha, with its long-standing reputation for reliability and quality service. It's no coincidence that we have long entrusted our traditional film projection needs to Ballantyne and its industry leading products. As anticipated, the Strong Digital team did a remarkable job in meeting the demands of our installation, and we are thrilled to be showing the first film on the system this month."

Ray Boegner, Senior Vice President of Ballantyne, commented, "It is has been our privilege to be part of this historical landmark over the years and now bringing the latest in digital projection technology to operate side by side with our existing film equipment is an added plus. This may very well be the largest theatre in the world that is equipped for day to day digital presentations, and we are proud of our association with the Fox Theater and remain committed to ensuring their continued success."

About The Fox Theatre

The Fabulous Fox Theatre is one of Atlanta's premiere venues for live entertainment. The Fox was voted Top Small Non-Resident venue for 2005 by Billboard Touring Awards. The Fox's 4,500 seat theatre is booked more than 300 nights out of the year. An impressive range of events from Broadway to concerts to operas, ballets and movies continue to attract nearly 750,000 visitors per year. In addition, The Fox is host to wedding receptions, trade shows, corporate meetings and association functions in its fabulous ballrooms, lounge and outdoor terrace. As a 501(c)(3)not-for-profit arts organization, The Fox Theatre stands today as a fiercely protected landmark and a nationally acclaimed theater and celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. Tickets for all events are available at The Fox Theatre box office or for group sales information contact The Fox Theatre at (404) 881-2000 or visit The Fox Theatre website at www.foxtheatre.org. The Fox Theatre is located at 660 Peachtree Street NE.

About Ballantyne of Omaha

Ballantyne is a leading provider of motion picture projection, specialty lighting and digital cinema equipment and services. The Company also supplies specialty projection equipment utilized by major theater chains and location-based entertainment providers and manufactures specialty entertainment lighting products used at top arenas, television and motion picture production studios, theme parks and architectural sites around the world.

Except for the historical information in this press release, it includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, quarterly fluctuations in results; customer demand for the Company's products; the development of new technology for alternate means of motion picture presentation; domestic and international economic conditions; the management of growth; and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. Actual results may differ materially from management's expectations.