Sony, Alamo Drafthouse to Reopen Iconic Cinerama Dome

The iconic Cinerama Dome, a landmark Hollywood theater that closed in April 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is set to be restored and reopened. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema will operate the 86-foot-wide curved dome theater, along with an adjacent 14-theater complex. Sony Pictures Entertainment, the owner of Alamo Drafthouse, announced the plan to restore the Dome, with a target reopening date in early 2028. The restoration will preserve the distinctive geodesic exterior and large logo that have defined the theater since its opening in 1963. Unlike other Alamo Drafthouse locations, the Cinerama Dome will not feature in-theater dining.

Ravi Ahuja, Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, stated that the Cinerama Dome "commands the affection, history, and cultural significance" of moviegoing destinations worldwide and represents a "singular experience" valued by the company. Michael Kustermann, CEO of Alamo Drafthouse, confirmed that the dome will serve as the company's new West Coast flagship theater. The dome is equipped with a massive screen capable of 70 mm projection, a format experiencing renewed interest, partly due to films like Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer." The theater was originally commissioned in 1963 by Pacific Theatres founder William R. Forman as a cutting-edge venue for viewing films using three projectors on its custom curved screen.

Upon its closure in April 2021, the Cinerama Dome was one of only three theaters globally with 70 mm projection capabilities. Its operator at the time, Pacific Theaters, cited the COVID-19 pandemic as the reason for its shutdown. Michael O’Leary, president and CEO of Cinema United, a movie theater trade group, expressed approval of the reopening news. O’Leary noted the Cinerama Dome's status as a "treasured and important landmark for movie fans and the entire film community for over six decades." He also commented that the timing is opportune, as moviegoers are demonstrating a strong preference for unique big-screen experiences.

In addition to the Cinerama Dome, Alamo Drafthouse will also reopen the 14-theater complex located next to the dome. This complex was previously operated by ArcLight Cinemas. The reopening of the Cinerama Dome signifies a significant revival for a historic venue and a commitment to preserving unique cinematic experiences in Hollywood.