Paramount Theatre has announced the closing date for the downtown Kelowna theatre.
The downtown theatre announced on March 2nd that the theatre would be closing its doors. Bill Walker, chief operating officer for Landmark Cinemas in Canada said in a previous interview with KelownaNow that he knew the closure would happen eventually.
The landlord of the space has decided to redevelop the centre and the theatre will officially close down after Mar. 28.
With the closing, many Kelowna residents were devastated when they heard the news. One KelownaNow reader said they’ll miss being able to watch more niche movies in the Okanagan.
“It still has remained the only place in Kelowna to go see smaller movies, including several of the Oscar winners from the last few years (including Brooklyn, Birdman, the Theory of Everything and Room). Revamping it into a more modern theatre may not be possible but it's a real shame since it worked alright as a sort art house-like place.”
Starting on Mar. 25 and running until Mar. 28, Paramount Theatre will be showing special presentations of older movies. Ticket sales during Paramount’s closing weekend will also support Kids Help Phone.
In an ode to 1949, the year the Paramount Theatre opened its doors, Abbott and Costello’s Africa Screams and Orson Welles’ The Third Man will be shown.
In an ode to 1987, the year the Paramount Theatre was acquired by Landmark Cinemas, Harry and Henderson, Innerspace and Beverly Hills Cop will be shown.
On top of the special presentations Batman vs. Superman will also be shown.
Ticket prices will be $3 during the final special presentations, with $1 from every ticket being given to the Kids Help Phone.
Neil Campbell, President & CEO Landmark Cinemas Canada said he knows how Paramount theatre has been a spot for first dates, first kisses, and of course unforgettable movie moments.
“We wanted to re-kindle those memories as we prepare to dim the lights for the last time.”
To purchase your tickets for the final showings at the downtown theatre, visit the Landmark Cinemas website.
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