Exciting news is on the roll for downtown Hope: the Hope Cinema is reopening under new management. After having to close due to COVID restrictions on movie theatres, the cinema is reopening on Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021.
The re-opening includes new concession menu items and the original recipe popcorn will still be a staple. Another change is the addition of credit and debit payment options.
“If the recent response to our Facebook announcement is any indication, Hope residents are thrilled to have their iconic cinema showing movies again,” said Cora Price, new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to the theatre.
But the question on many people’s lips, ‘what about the Hope Film Club?’
“Yes,” says Price, “the Cinema’s new management team has been in contact with the Hope Film Club, and we are hoping to have them reconvene in the near future.”
READ MORE: Film club holds birthday bash for 75-year-old Hope Cinema
Along with so many avenues of entertainment, the Film Club was shuttered by COVID in March 2020. Prior to that, they had a seven-year-run of showing a variety of films from the 1930s, right into the 2000s. And like a book club, a big draw for many members was having the opportunity to discuss the movie, its history, and any other intriguing points of interest after watching it on the big screen. It’s not just about watching a movie, but rather, creating an experience out of a movie.
With that in mind, Price says the new management team is thinking of its to-be patrons, and what they need to return to experiencing movies at the Hope Cinema.
Following current COVID health protocols, the Cinema is limited to a 50 per-cent capacity audience, face masks will be required to enter and move about—they’re allowed off while seated—and attendees will be encouraged to practice social distancing.
“And beginning Sept. 13, proof of vaccine will be checked at the door,” adds Price.
To kickoff their reopening, the Hope Cinema is featuring two action-packed films, a family-friendly one, and an adult friendly one: Space Jam: A New Legacy (PG), and Suicide Squad (14A). Showings will be on Tuesdays, and Thursdays through Sundays, with the front marquee announcing titles and times.
To learn more about the reopening of the Hope Cinema, or to follow their show announcements and theatre updates, Price encourages patrons to follow the Cinema’s Facebook Page.
For more information about the Hope Film Club, email HopeCinePals@gmail.com.
@SarahGawdin
Sarah.Gawdin@hopestandard.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
Want to support local journalism during the pandemic? Make a donation here.