does a midnight premiere count as an exception for teens that are 17 years of age?

This answer is based in Arizona law, so if you live in another state the situation may be different.

Curfews are set locally, either county by county or city by city. There is no exemption for a midnight premiere under the law. However, a local Board of Supervisors or City Counsel may make a exception if they wish to. To find out if this has occurred you should call the local police department. A theater or other entertainment provider may not make an exception to a law simply by deciding to put on an entertainment that is attractive to minors after curfew. The law is still in the hands of the lawmaking body. Please check with the police.