Independent cinemas have – like other entertainment venues across the UK – been closed since March because of the coronavirus lockdown. But while some owners are keen to welcome audiences as soon as possible, many have concerns about reopening too soon, for both financial and atmospheric reasons.
A survey of independent cinemas in the UK found a majority did not expect to reopen before September.
The Independent Cinema Office (ICO) poll found 72% saw autumn as the earliest likely date to return to business, while others said they may wait for social distancing to end.
The government has said cinemas could reopen on 4 July but one owner told the BBC he feared venues could feel “like a hospital” while safety precautions remained necessary. Others said if only half the seats – or fewer- were full they would not make a profit.
The ICO has called for extra government funding to help venues survive.
Source: BBC News
