Sony to reopen iconic LA theater Cinerama Dome after 6 years

Sony Pictures Entertainment has announced the reopening of the iconic Cinerama Dome in Hollywood, which has been closed since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The theater, recognized as a Los Angeles Historical Cultural Monument, will undergo extensive renovations starting in August 2023, with plans for completion by early 2028. The Cinerama Dome will be operated by Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, a subsidiary of Sony Pictures that was acquired in 2024 as part of the company's expansion into the exhibition business. The Cinerama Dome has been a significant fixture in Hollywood since its opening in 1963. Sony's decision to revive the theater aligns with its broader strategy to enhance its presence in the cinema exhibition sector. Alongside the reopening of the Cinerama Dome, the former 14-screen Hollywood ArcLight Cinema will also be transformed into an Alamo Drafthouse location, providing the dine-in movie experience that the brand is known for. The renovations of the Cinerama Dome are part of a larger initiative by Sony Pictures to invest in and revitalize historic theaters. The company has been actively pursuing opportunities in the exhibition industry, including the acquisition of the Alamo Drafthouse chain and investments in shared-reality experiences. The reopening of the Cinerama Dome is anticipated to be a significant cultural event for the Hollywood community and moviegoers alike. In summary, the Cinerama Dome's reopening marks a pivotal moment for both Sony Pictures and the Hollywood cinema landscape. The extensive renovations and the operation by Alamo Drafthouse are expected to breathe new life into this historic venue, contributing to the revitalization of the local movie-going experience.