Cineplex says all of the Toronto-based company's remaining theatres darkened by the COVID-19 pandemic are slated to reopen by the end of this week, in concert with public health advice, including Galaxy Cinemas in North Bay, which has screenings listed on its website for today.
A total of 164 theatres and 1,687 screens operated under the Cineplex umbrella nationwide will once again be open to the public today.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, North Bay Galaxy Cinemas has been closed for five months. In March, Cineplex President Ellis Jacob announced the company's entertainment venues would be temporarily closing based on "guidance from multiple public health authorities, including recent government directives and the escalating dangers of community spread."
The movie theatre chain will be permitted to sell 50 tickets per auditorium, where physical distancing allows and attendees will be required to wear face coverings in communities under mandatory orders, like North Bay.
In late July, Cineplex decided to keep the North Bay operation closed while 25 other locations opened across Ontario. Sarah Van Lange, executive director of communications for Cineplex promised then North Bay wouldn't be far behind, and three weeks later Galaxy Cinemas North Bay is welcoming movie-goers.
"We very much look forward to opening our doors to North Bay movie-lovers...We all miss the wonder of the big screen and are in need of a safe and social night out with friends and family," said Van Lange.
Some new health and safety procedures in effect at all Cineplex holdings:
- Reserved seating is in effect in every auditorium.
- Auditorium capacity is reduced and seating in every auditorium is staggered to ensure compliance with physical distancing guidelines.
- Please arrive no more than 15 minutes before your showtime to allow for physical distancing in the lobby.
- Showtimes are spread out to limit the number of people in common areas.
- Limited concessions are available.
- Guests who experience symptoms of COVID-19, the flu or a cold should not enter the theatre and should contact Guest Services for a full refund of their tickets.
- Food offerings have been temporarily reduced. Full beer, wine, and cocktail menus are still available.
In North Bay, "The Spongebob Movie: Sponge On The Run," will be today's first screening at 3:40 p.m., according to the Galaxy Cinemas website.
