After being closed for months, Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse (2903 Columbia Pike) is planning to reopen this weekend, but with restrictions.
Owner Tim Clark said this week’s reopening is a test drive to gauge public interest in attending the entertainment venue while the rate of coronavirus cases is still going up.
“It feels weird, but good,” Clark said. “There are a lot of unknowns, but we’re excited to get back up. [We’ll be at] 33% capacity for everything, and with social distancing probably under that… We just really want to see how the room flows and how people react.”
Clark said he recognized that the prospect of reopening the venue, which has been closed since March 13, is likely to concern people.
“At this point, we feel pretty confident in how we’re going to reopening,” Clark said. “We’re keeping to all of the mandates and recommendations. We’re doing everything we can. We still have bills and have everything going forward, so having zero revenue was going to be detrimental to the business. We’re seeing a small window and this is really a test.”
Clark said the venue will be run by what’s left of his staff. Many people have moved out of the area or found other jobs. While recognizing that it wasn’t exactly environmentally friendly, Clark said in the interest of public health the venue is also going fully disposable containers and utensils for its limited menu.
“Excited to see if people come out,” Clark said. “I think people are itching for it.”
According to the theater website:
Mask or facial covering will be required for entry into theater and must be worn while moving around inside the theater, no exceptions. Once you are seated the masks may be removed for eating/drinking. Seating will be in compliance with social distancing Virginia phase 3 mandates. Full menu will be available for purchase tableside. High touch areas will be sanitized regularly during and between events. No one with a fever, COVID 19 symptoms or know exposure to COVID 19 with in the last 14 days will be permitted in the establishment.
This weekend, comedian Sarah Tollemache is scheduled to perform stand-up shows at 7 and 9:30 p.m. on Friday (Aug. 6) and Saturday (Aug 7). Tickets will be $20.
The venue will also be showing The Goonies on Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m. Tickets are $5.
Photo via Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse/Facebook