LIFE

North Naples movie theater announces it is reopening Friday

Dave Osborn
Naples Daily News
Paragon Pavillion theater has announced that it is reopening Aug. 21, 2020, after being closed since the global pandemic began this past spring.

A North Naples movie house closed since the global pandemic began is reopening this weekend.

Paragon Pavilion, 833 Vanderbilt Beach Road, on Friday will once again welcome movie-goers with health guidelines required. The Florida-based company that owns the theater said it has installed HEPA air purifiers for theater common areas, with the systems effective in removing nearly 100 percent of bacteria, virus carriers, dust and pollen from the air.

"The health and safety of not only our guests but our employees are paramount," James Herd, chief operating officer of Paragon Theaters, said in a news release.

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"We've focused our efforts on going above and beyond the state and local guidelines. We want guests to feel safe and comfortable with their movie experience at Paragon."

All high contact areas, including kiosks, door handles, faucets, countertops, will be cleaned and disinfected every 30 minutes, the company said. And each work area will have timers to ensure consistent and regular cleaning.

A patron visits the concession area at Paragon Pavilion theatre in 2014.  The theater has announced that it is reopening Aug. 21, 2020, after being closed since the global pandemic began this past spring.

In addition, automated hand sanitizer stations have also been placed strategically throughout each facility. Masks will be required in all common areas, though guests may remove their masks while in theaters.

All auditorium capacities have been reduced, and Paragon has implemented checkerboard style staggered seating. Paragon features all-electric recliners with footrests and has grouped seats in pairs, providing even greater social distancing, while in the auditorium.

Advanced tickets are now on sale for "Unhinged" starring Russell Crowe with the first shows starting at noon Friday. Visit paragontheaters for a list of other films playing this weekend.

Upcominig blockbuster movies expected to be released this fall include the long-awaited Christopher Nolan film "Tenet" on Sept. 3 and "Wonder Woman 1984" in October.