Central Mass. independent theaters caught in coronavirus closure
Photo | Matt Wright
The Strand Theatre, on High Street in Clinton
Small restaurants and shops aren't the only places hurting from a forced ban on large gatherings. So are the area's independent movie theaters.
The Strand Theatre in Clinton, Elm Draught House in Millbury, West Boylston Cinema and O’Neil Cinemas in Littleton are each closed for the next roughly three weeks as part of Gov. Charlie Baker's ban on gatherings of more than 25 people to limit the spread of coronavirus.
They're not alone: AMC Theatres, which has a location in Framingham, and Regal Cinemas, which has theaters in Bellingham and Marlborough, said they will close for the foreseeable future. Showcase Cinemas, which has locations in Millbury and Worcester, said it will close until April 7. IMAX, which has a theater in Framingham, and Cinemagic in Sturbridge are closed.
With schools closed and sporting events postponed, movie theaters would likely otherwise be swamped. But the coronavirus pandemic, which has a reported 197 cases statewide from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health as of Monday, has put small, independently run theaters in Central Massachusetts in potential economic peril.
O'Neil Cinemas, which has locations in Littleton and Epping, N.H., called its patrons and staff its heart and soul, and urged support once the cinemas are back in operation.
"While closing is the right thing to do, we will need all of your support to get back up and running again," the theater posted on its website. "If you’d like to support us while we are closed we have gift cards available for purchase online. They are great gifts for all your family and friends and even yourself! Be on the lookout for our awesome comeback and remember to support local businesses during this time. We can’t wait to see you again!"
Other independent theaters posted similar messages this week.
"This was not a welcomed decision but certainly a necessary one to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our customers, our staff and the community. Obviously, if the order is lifted sooner we will reopen sooner," West Boylston Cinema said.
Elm Draught House said it plans to re-open in mid-April and to continue with a planned comedy show April 25.
"It's only a couple weeks," the theater said in a recorded message, with a hopeful tone. "We'll get through it."
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