Caribbean Cinemas at Giftland Mall remains closed, despite its reopening announcement on August 14.
Manager, Mark Farinha, during an interview with Stabroek News said the setback was due to approval being denied.
Farinha disclosed being in receipt of a letter from the COVID-19 committee informing them that no permission was granted to reopen the cinema.
He told this newspaper that presently there was no confirmed date for the reopening of the cinemas. However he was still optimistic and mentioned that there is a plan in place should approval be granted.
Farinha stated that while the plan was approved in most countries worldwide where Caribbean Cinemas operates, it was not allowed to be implemented here. A plan was also submitted to the Minister of Health, outlining the basic guidelines to be used in relation to the reopening of the cinema.
In addition, their operating systems have been revised and a decision was made to reduce the variety of food items sold there.
He explained, that with the new measures in place, they will not be operating out of their back kitchen, but instead introducing a strict take-out system.
Food items sold will include, soda, popcorn, nachos and candy.
These food items, he said, will be made available for purchase online, along with the tickets, and the selection of seats.
He explained that an identification number will also be provided, and scanned upon entry, allowing patrons to pick up their items and then be guided to their seats – “a smooth transaction”.
Further, the online system will allow customers the opportunity to see available and unavailable seats, which in turn will support the mandatory seating arrangements by accommodating physical distancing.
He added that staff will be guided by the protocols in place and will ensure that everyone is temperature tested and engages in hand-sanitizing. There is also a plan in place to avoid crowd buildup.
Previously Stabroek News had reported a statement from Caribbean Cinemas which stated it was reopening on August 14.
The statement had said that to minimise contact areas inside the theatre, patrons will have the option to purchase tickets and concession items online, after which patrons will receive a confirmation code that would grant access to the entrance after being scanned by one of the ushers and could also pick up their concession items with minimum contact and no handling of cash or debit/credit cards.
The use of facemasks for patrons and employees is required at all times, except when eating. There will be hand sanitising stations around the lobby area. Acrylic panels have been installed in ticket booth and concession areas to protect employees and patrons. The cleaning frequency will be increased on high contact points, such as door handles, counters, kiosks, doors and railings.
Auditorium capacity was reduced to create social distancing by leaving seats and empty rows between parties. By the end of the movie, patrons will leave the auditorium in row order, as instructed by usher. In the concession area, it will be compulsory for employees to use gloves, and protective gear.
As part of the opening schedule, Caribbean Cinemas confirmed it will be releasing new movies.
