AVID movie-goers are eager to return to a socially-distanced cinema, but there is still uncertainty when Forum 6 Wagga will reopen its doors.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The reopening date of July 1 for Australian cinemas has come and gone, but general manager Craig Lucas said the city will need to continue waiting because he was at the mercy of Disney and Roadshow, which have released very few movies.
And the reality is the cost of re-opening after four months is extremely high, he said.
"The type of old product that is played at cinemas and drive-ins around the country right now - I wouldn't be able to turn the lights on let alone afford the rent," he said.
Mr Lucas said he understands it is disappointing, but in the meantime staff were preparing the cinema so that people feel comfortable once they return for a screening.
The cinema upgraded its ticketing system that allocates seating and ensures a "social-distancing bubble" applied for each movie-goer, as well as recording every name and telephone number to allow for contact-tracing.
In other news:
Mr Lucas said there will be staggered and a reduced number of sessions, thorough disinfecting of seats and less crowds in the foyer.
"They will be instructed to go out back doors while people line up to go in so that there is no crossover," he said.
"We want it to be a friendly environment that's safe, but we are trying to relieve tension as well."