Buffalo’s Iconic North Park Theatre Reopening

With the state is lifting its curfew on businesses including theatres, gyms and casinos, the North Park Theatre announced that it will open to the public later this month.

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WIVB-TV reports Program Director Ray Barker says the theatre’s soft opening, will be on April 23, he says the theatre will see how the public responds to the iconic theatre being open again.

If enough people make it to the movies, they’ll keep the theatre open. If they don’t sell enough tickets after the reopening, they’ll go back to offering just private screenings.

Barker says removing the 11 p.m. curfew on theaters will help especially on big movie premier weekends.

“We’re excited because there’s just some films that are better enjoyed at 9:30 p.m.,” he said. “We have fans of horror, science fiction, and cult movies that usually works much better at 9:30 p.m.”

He does say it’s important that all safety guidelines be followed.

“We want to be very cautious and whatever the restrictions are we’re probably going to be even more severe than what the government restrictions are because we want to keep people safe because we think if we behave responsibly, then we can finally get out of this pandemic and get back to life as close to normal as it’s gonna get,” Barker said.

The venue could normally hold 600 moviegoers, but under restrictions, the capacity for shows will be limited to 50 people.

Indoor entertainment venues were given the green light to open at 33 percent capacity.

“I mean obviously we’re moving forward with people being able to be vaccinated and than opening up, it’s great news,” she said “Now when everyone will be able to open their doors and have audience members come in, and shows being produced, that’s a little bit of a different question.”