Perth’s iconic Playhouse cinema is to undergo a major refurbishment after clinching a ground breaking deal to become the first independent cinema in the UK to house the state-of-the-art IMAX experience.
The development – which will bring movie fans across the region with the ultimate cinema experience – represents a major investment in the area by Playhouse owners G1 Group.
The agreement between G1 Group and the IMAX Corporation will see the Playhouse hosting the only IMAX cinema outwith Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Work on the redevelopment of the B-Listed art deco building in Murray Street is expected to begin early next month and will involve the transformation of Screen One as well as an extensive refit of the cinema’s interior and food court.
Stefan King, Managing Director, G1 Group, said this is the first time the IMAX have agreed to work with an independent cinema operator in the UK, underpinning the importance of the agreement for Perth Playhouse.
He said: “This announcement demonstrates G1 Group commitment to investment in Scotland, adding to existing locations in Dundee, Perth and St Andrews.
“The revitalisation of Perth Playhouse marks the perfect marriage of Scotland’s cinematic history and the world’s most advanced cinematic technology.
“The IMAX Experience is so immersive that it can help audiences forget they are in a cinema and transport them into the action and drama of a film. We are delighted to partner with IMAX and together look forward to ushering a new era of movie-going at this landmark site.”
Andrew Cripps, President, IMAX EMEA added: “Together with G1 Group, we are excited to be a part of the evolution of the historic Perth Playhouse and of the movie-going experience in this rich and vibrant community.”
The IMAX screen is expected to be launched in earnest in mid-July, with the first screening one of this year’s most anticipated summer blockbusters. Typically IMAX cinemas show new release movies in advance of standard cinemas with viewers having the added benefit of larger screens, sharper picture, better sounds and immersive 3D experiences.
Ken Creelman, G1’s cinema development manager, said the venture will revolutionise ‘going to the movies’ for people across Perthshire, Tayside and Fife and central lowlands.
He said: “The IMAX experience is like no other and we are so excited to see the reaction and response this will get from our customers.
“Perth Playhouse has been at the centre of the community for so many years but we’re confident it will now become a mecca for cinema-goers from across Perthshire, Tayside and Fife.”
Designed by Kingussie-based architect Alexander Cattanach Jr, the Playhouse – which has seven screens – first opened in 1933.
Although the refurbishment works are significant, the Playhouse is determined that the movie going experience should continue during the upgrade and plans are in place to allow all of the other six screens to operate with the best choice of movies during the IMAX installation process, along with a temporary change to the food court.
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