Seattle Cinerama Grand Reopening

SEATTLE, Nov. 5, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- After two months' intensive work on rejuvenating interiors and installing state-of-the-art technology, Seattle's popular Cinerama Theatre is ready for its close-up -- again.

With a new wide screen, 3D technology, digital projector, updated sound system and refreshed mid-century decor, the theater will reopen its doors with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows on Friday, November 19 at 12:01 a.m. (Thursday, midnight). (Because Harry Potter was not filmed in 3D, Cinerama plans to debut its new 3D technology with the opening of TRON: Legacy on December 17).

Featuring new carpet, paint, lighting and a redesigned concessions area, this latest update will cement Cinerama's reputation as the place in town to watch Hollywood blockbusters in style. Aside from new Hollywood releases, the theater will also continue to feature classic movies and donate its use for film festivals and nonprofit fundraisers.

Greg Wood, owner/operator of Portland's Roseway Theater, was recently hired by owner Paul Allen's company, Vulcan Inc., to oversee Cinerama, replacing national distributor/operator AMC. Having recently completed the restoration of the Roseway's Art Deco interiors and technology update, Wood is impressed with the pains taken to bring Cinerama into the 21st century.

"Cinerama is a local treasure," said Wood. "Many people associate Cinerama with special movie memories, so it's great to see the theater treated with such loving care. It's also a thriving business with strong ties to the community."  

With a nod to regional tastes, Wood is bringing in local delicacies to stock the concession stand, including Theo Chocolate, Cupcake Royale, Cafe Vita coffee, and more.  

(Those more traditionally minded can still enjoy popcorn, Red Vines, Junior Mints and other classic movie fare).

The theater's new Web site, www.cinerama.com, will be launched next week, where fans can find coming attractions and ticket information.

See you at the movies.

Seattle Cinerama Theatre, built in 1963, is owned by philanthropist and investor Paul G. Allen, who saved it from demolition in 1988. Vulcan Inc. directed a spectacular restoration of the theater's early 1960s interiors and brought back the massive, curved screen used for special presentations of Cinerama and 70mm wide-screen movies. Seattle Cinerama is one of only three theaters in the world that can show original three-strip Cinerama films.

SOURCE Vulcan Inc.