Showcase Cinemas Plans To Reopen On July 4

"The most recent announcement from the government gave a proposed date of July 4 for leisure destinations that can implement social distancing and other safety measures to reopen, and this is what we are currently working towards," said Mark Barlow, General Manager, Showcase Cinemas UK.

By Rory Fish May 15, 2020

Following news that cinemas in Japan are beginning to reopen and that Hollywood’s big screen comeback will see Russell Crowe thriller Unhinged herald its return to theatres on July 1, Showcase Cinemas in the UK has announced its intention to reopen on July 4.

This follows the latest government guidance pertaining to leisure outlets and will see the cinema chain follow social distancing protocols and other relavant safety measures.

Mark Barlow, General Manager, Showcase Cinemas UK, said the chain had been “liaising throughout with the UK Cinema Association and the relevant authorities” and will only reopen based on the latest guidance from government.

However, while being dependent of an array of factors, Showcase Cinemas is looking towards July 4 as a real possibility for reopening. “Since the lockdown started, we have been working on what measures will be implemented when we are allowed to reopen, for the comfort and safety of guests and employees alike.

“The most recent announcement from the government gave a proposed date of July 4 for leisure destinations that can implement social distancing and other safety measures to reopen, and this is what we are currently working towards.”

Measures will include restricted capacities in auditoriums, staggered film start times on a reduced schedule, use of contactless payments only, and pre-booking of seats. Staff will be behind perspex shields at all till points, and wipes and hand sanitiser will be available throughout all buildings.

“We have also designed a comprehensive new cleaning programme and employee PPE requirements to ensure that our number one priority – the health and safety of everyone in our cinemas – is achieved,” added Barlow.

“Watching a film on the big screen is one of Britain’s biggest passions and we’re really excited that we will be able to welcome film fans back to our cinemas very soon.”

A spokesperson for the UK Cinema Association, said: “We have made clear to the UK Government – and the devolved Governments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland – that, on the basis of our understanding of the safeguards that will need to be in place before cinemas can safely open, most venues will be ready to do so by the end of June. The suggestion that this might be considered around July 4 for cinemas in England is therefore welcome.”