Visitors to newly refurbished iconic Cork cinema can expect a familiar feel

THE iconic cinema on Cork’s North Main St has reopened following a multi-million-euro refurbishment and, while it has a new name and a new look, management said patrons can expect a familiar feel.

The city centre venue, which has officially reopened its doors as The Arc Cinema at The Gate, has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment over the past few months and the reception from patrons has been “overwhelmingly positive”, Arc regional manager Tracey O'Brien told The Echo.

“People were coming in just to have a look before they’d actually come and see something.

“Everyone was in shock to be honest because when you walk in the door it’s so different. But at the same time, [people are] really delighted.

“As much as I adored what was there, it did need some updating and modernisation.

“People love that it’s so bright and airy and modern… but, funnily enough, it was actually one of our staff members who would have been a customer before, he made a very interesting comment – he said, ‘you come in and it looks different, but it still feels the same’ which was very important to me,” she said.

Ms O'Brien, who has been with the cinema since 2006, said the main feature of the refurb that has people talking is the new seating.

“For five out of the six screens it is fully electric recliner seating, leather recliners, and then in our Gate screen - which is going to be open towards the end of January - that’ll be more of an Art Deco feel with more armchairs and couches as opposed to the electric recliners,” she explained.

The Gate screen will host an array of entertainment, showcasing live theatre, ballet performances, as well as a curated selection of independent and foreign language films.

Another major draw for moviegoers is the Hypersense auditorium which boasts a brand new giant curved screen, the latest 4K laser projection and immersive surround sound.

For cinema listings visit https://cork.arccinema.ie/