Movie lovers who have missed going to the theaters might enjoy this news: Regal Cinemas just announced their reopening date.
One of the country’s largest movie theater chains plans to reopen July 10. There are 19 locations throughout Georgia, many of them in metro Atlanta.
Regal Cinemas shut down in March due to the coronavirus pandemic and they will have new safety rules and procedures in place. Many of them depend on the state or local county’s rules.
The biggest changes include limiting screenings to 50% where it’s required and leaving two seats between groups for social distancing. All guests and employees will wear masks if it’s required by their state or county.
At the concession stands, there will be a limited menu and no refills on large popcorn and drinks. Here is a full look at what you can expect if you decide to return to the movies.
Lobby areas
- Greeters will be located in the lobby to assist guests with new procedural changes.
- Guests will be encouraged to proceed to their auditorium as soon as possible, and exit the theatre in a timely manner at the conclusion of their movie
- Wall mounted sanitizer dispensers will be available on either side of the main entrance.
- Arcade games and vending machines will remain closed. Additionally, water fountains will not be available for use.
Concession stands
- Every other register will be closed to maintain social distancing.
- Self-service condiment stands will be closed.
- Locations featuring diners, restaurants and in-theatre food delivery will have these services temporarily suspended.
- Locations with bars will remain open for walk-up service only.
Movie auditoriums
- Reservation system will maintain two empty seats between groups (1 seat at recliner locations) to maintain proper social distancing throughout the movie.
- At theaters where performances are non-reserved, you will be requested to leave two seats between groups.
- Group sizes will only be limited where required by a state or county mandate.
Employees
- Regal employees will undergo daily health screenings including temperature checks where mandated
- Employees will be required to wash hands at minimum every 30 to 60 minutes, dependent on job roles
- Where required by local governance, all employees and guests will wear masks.
Regal isn’t the first chain to reopen Georgia locations. NCG Cinemas plans to reopen their theaters Friday.