Broadway Centre Cinemas’ Renovation: A Glimpse into the Future of Moviegoing
Salt Lake City’s Broadway Centre Cinemas is undergoing a $2 million renovation, signaling a broader trend in the cinema industry: a move towards enhanced comfort, accessibility and a renewed focus on the shared moviegoing experience. The changes, slated for completion in April, will introduce “Boho-luxe” and “Modern classic” cinema options, replacing the venue’s current seating with more comfortable and accessible options.
Beyond Recliners: The Rise of Thoughtful Cinema Design
While many theaters have embraced luxury recliners, Broadway Centre Cinemas is opting for “wide-base gliding seats” and “roomier seating” in warm earth tones. This decision isn’t about eschewing comfort, but about prioritizing a different kind of experience. According to Tori A. Baker, the film society’s president and CEO, recliners can “physically separate patrons and subtly shift the experience toward isolation.” This highlights a growing awareness that the social aspect of moviegoing is a key differentiator for theaters competing with streaming services.
This approach aligns with a trend toward creating more intentional and communal cinema spaces. Theaters are increasingly recognizing that they offer something streaming can’t: a shared experience. Design choices are now reflecting this, with a focus on fostering a sense of community.
Accessibility as a Core Component of Cinema Renovation
The renovation includes improved access for guests with mobility challenges, including new viewing platforms. This isn’t merely about compliance; it’s about inclusivity and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the cinematic experience. This focus on accessibility is becoming increasingly common as theaters strive to broaden their appeal and cater to diverse audiences.
Theaters are realizing that accessibility isn’t just a matter of legal requirements, but a fundamental aspect of customer service and a way to build a loyal audience. Improvements like wheelchair-accessible seating, assistive listening devices, and enhanced visual aids are becoming standard features in many renovated cinemas.
Sustainability and Longevity in Theater Design
Broadway’s decision to avoid energy-intensive recliner mechanisms, which require frequent replacement, demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and long-term value. The renovations are expected to last 30 years, a significant increase compared to the five-year lifespan of many recliner systems. This reflects a broader industry trend toward environmentally conscious design and durable materials.
The apply of natural and recycled materials, funded in part by a grant from the Arts Humanities Environment/Cultural Initiative Trust, further underscores this commitment. Theaters are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their environmental footprint and operate more sustainably.
The Impact on Capacity and the Future of Independent Cinemas
The renovation will result in a 9% reduction in overall capacity, bringing the total to 937 seats. While a decrease in capacity might seem counterintuitive, it allows for a more premium experience. This strategy is particularly relevant for independent cinemas like Broadway Centre Cinemas, which rely on creating a unique and compelling atmosphere to attract audiences.
Independent cinemas are often at the forefront of innovation in cinema design, as they have the flexibility to experiment with different concepts and cater to niche audiences. The Broadway Centre Cinemas renovation is a prime example of this, demonstrating a willingness to prioritize quality over quantity and create a truly memorable moviegoing experience.
FAQ
Will the new seats recline? No, the new seats will be adjustable but will not fully recline.
When will the renovations be completed? The renovations are expected to be completed in April, with the first phase finished in March.
What types of seating will be available? There will be two types of cinemas: “Boho-luxe” with gliding seats and loveseats, and “Modern classic” with roomier seating in warm earth tones.
What happened to the old seats? The current blue seats were repurposed from Megaplex Theatres in Lehi in 2011 and had “served Broadway well for more than a decade.”
Will all auditoriums be closed during the renovation? No, at least three of the six auditoriums will remain open during the renovation.
Did you know? The original seats at Broadway Centre Cinemas had a second life, being repurposed from another theater in 2011!
Pro Tip: Check the Salt Lake Film Society website (https://slfs.org/best-seat/) for updates on the renovation progress and seating maps.
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