Skip to Content

Cathedral City’s Mary Pickford only valley movie theater to reopen

The silver screen made its return to the valley Friday, with the Mary Pickford Theater in Cathedral City the first and only movie theater to open its doors locally.

"I've been eagerly awaiting the movies reopening because I just really enjoy movies,' said Curt Watts, one of the theaters first customers back.

The Pickford was closed for more than three months – and now for $5 per ticket, people can see a socially distanced movie on the big screen.

General Manager Ted Hane said he's working to build back up momentum as the community starts to trickle back in – of course, with coronavirus precautions in place.

"We're at 25 percent capacity, so there really isn't a lot of room to pack people in – it's very very spread out," Hane said. "We've also staggered the times that (movies) get out so that we don't overload the restrooms, and there's a large intermission time to allow us to clean and sanitize."

"I feel very safe," Watts said. "I looked online – saw what they were doing for social distancing, keeping spaces between people, so I feel like they're doing the right thing."

You'll notice decals on the floor, and cleaning crews sanitizing frequently.

"Before we would go in, sweep up, do our thing," Hane said. "Now we're really focused on where were people actually sitting, taking care of that particular seat and the adjacent seats."

The Pickford is also requiring masks inside, except when in your seat in the theater. It's a controversial topic with the nation's largest movie theater chain, AMC, facing backlash over its initial mask-optional policy. The company has now reversed coursed and required them.

Hane said at the Pickford, it's about keeping the community safe. "If you come in and you don't have a mask and you're pushing that agenda, I understand your own personal need, but I'm protecting my employees, I'm protecting my guests as well."

You can reach Jake on TwitterFacebook or email him at jake.ingrassia@kesq.com.

Article Topic Follows: News

Jump to comments ↓

Author Profile Photo

Jake Ingrassia

Joining News Channel 3 and CBS Local 2 as a reporter, Jake is excited to be launching his broadcasting career here in the desert. Learn more about Jake here.

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

News Channel 3 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content