BECKLEY, WV (WOAY) – Marquee Cinemas has reopened once again after a brief hiatus during the pandemic.
The iconic Marquee Cinemas closed down back in March due to COVID-19 concerns, then they reopened not long ago after putting in many different precautions. According to General Manager of their Beckley location Jacob Armstrong, they abruptly closed down again when Hollywood hit a wall and stopped their summer releases.
“We kind of hit a dry spot with films. All film companies kind of stopped releasing movies across the county. So we closed down due to that shift in releases.”
They’ve got many films available right now for patrons to watch. According to them, each day for releases might be a bit different, but they’re ready to reopen again and serve the community.
“Each day is a little different depending on a couple of factors. So check online, go ahead and check those times before you come in, make sure you got it right.”
As well they’re keeping up with the precautions. Social distancing is enforced in the theaters by blocking off certain seats and they’re requiring masks in their common areas.
“It’s important for folks to come together in films. I think we’ve provided a very safe environment for that. We’ve got sanitizing solutions in place, we’re wiping all high-contact surfaces down.”
Going to the movies has been a privilege that many haven’t had for months now, and according to Marquee Cinemas, they’re taking enough precautions so people can feel safe heading out again.
“That’s something that we haven’t been able to do in a long time, and I think we’re providing a great atmosphere for that. And it’s a bit of relief for folks that are in need of that right now.”
Masks are required only when in the common areas of the building. Because the theatre seats are socially-distanced, masks are not required when viewing a film. Social distancing is also insisted when in any part of the building.
Marquee Cinemas has six locations in West Virginia, and spans across nine different states.
