Worthing’s Dome Cinema vows to carry on as multiplexes stumble

Worthing’s Dome Cinema confirms it will be remaining open – despite the closure of Cineworld and reduced hours for others of the major chains.
Ross McLaughlin Worthing Dome CinemaRoss McLaughlin Worthing Dome Cinema
Ross McLaughlin Worthing Dome Cinema

Site manager Ross McLaughlin said: “We are delighted to confirm that we are remaining open and have no plans for closure under the current cinematic landscape.

“While the announcement of a further delay to the release of the new James Bond film No Time To Die certainly impacted where we expected a rise in admits to occur, there are still a number of great titles set to release this year that, though not the size of James Bond, are no less worthy of attention.”

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Universal Studios and Eon Production’s No Time To Die was originally slated for an April 2020 release date before being moved to November as the Covid-19 pandemic took hold. It has now been pushed back again to April 2 2021.

Following the announcement, Cineworld quickly announced the closure of all of their multiplexes and Picturehouse sites. But The Dome is looking ahead with confidence.

Films remaining on the calendar for 2020 include Peter Rabbit 2, Wonder Woman 1984 and Death On The Nile, as well as smaller releases such as Freaky, Happiest Season and Philophobia. The Dome also have screenings of Michael Ball & Alfie Boe: Back Together at the end of October, a live recording of the last night of their sell out UK tour at London’s 02 Arena.

Ross added: “We are committed to customer safety and have invested heavily to ensure their wellbeing during the current pandemic.

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“To date, there have been no reported cases of Covid-19 linked to cinemas worldwide. Measures taken at The Dome include heavily-reduced capacities in all auditoriums, temperature checks on arrival and increased fresh air flow.”

Company director Paul Jervis added: “We were very fortunate to come into the pandemic in a strong position, having experienced a record 2019 with over 300,000 admissions.

“Such a unique and historic building requires heavy investment to maintain, and we did have to carry out emergency repairs during the lockdown.

“We also have an ongoing slate of repairs, renovations and improvements to ensure the building remains safe and keeps its iconic stature in Worthing’s crown.

“All being well, 2021 will be an exciting year for us.

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“Anyone wishing to help during this time is encouraged to visit to watch one of our many brand-new film releases, hire one of our screens, purchase gift vouchers and keep an eye on our website for other upcoming opportunities to assist.”

The Dome’s website can be found at www.domecinema.co.uk with full details of screenings.

They are a separate business from Worthing Dome Events who run the vintage Tea Rooms and function rooms at The Dome.

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