REAL BUTTER POPCORN
PROVIDENCE, RI – After a five-month intermission, due to the Coronavirus/COVID-19 Pandemic , Richard Dulgarian , who owns the historic Avon Cinema with his brother Kenny , announced today that the iconic movie theatre, located near Brown University on Providence’s East Side, is set to reopen with a new film on Friday, August 28, 2020 .
“I received a call from our film programmer of 30 years regarding a new independent film, which was available and since it presented an opportunity to reopen, I jumped at the chance,” said Mr. Dulgarian. “We get numerous calls every day asking when the theatre will be ready to welcome patrons back and now I finally have a date!”
Following both state and CDC guidelines, the theatre has installed plexiglass dividers to protect both employees and patrons, enhanced its cleaning procedures, has added on-site hand sanitizer dispensers, and will require all employees and guests to maintain social distancing protocols and wear face masks at all times.
“Although the experience will feel a bit different,” said Mr. Dulgarian, “theatregoers will still enjoy everything they’ve come to expect at the Avon – a nostalgic movie-going experience with a friendly staff at affordable prices. And let’s not forget the popcorn, served with real butter, which is purportedly the best tasting in the area!”
Directed by Armando Iannucci and starring Dev Patel, Hugh Laurie and Tilda Swinton, The Personal History of David Copperfield , is a fresh and distinctive take on Charles Dickens’ semi-autobiographical masterpiece. Set in the 1840’s, the film chronicles the life of its iconic title character as he navigates a chaotic world to find his elusive place within it. From his unhappy childhood to the discovery of his gift as a storyteller and writer, David’s journey is by turns hilarious and tragic, but always full of life, color and humanity. Rated PG. Running time 119 minutes.
The Personal History of David Copperfield is scheduled to run from August 28 – September 10 at 3:15 and 6:20 pm. The theatre is located at 260 Thayer Street, Providence, RI 02906. For additional information, visit www.AvonCinema.com or call (401) 421-3315.
ABOUT THE AVON THEATRE
The Avon Cinema is an independent movie theatre located near Brown University on the East Side of Providence.
The theatre’s Art deco styling dates from its opening in February 1938, and its programming was “dedicated to the exclusive showing of unusual pictures.”
During World War II, foreign films became difficult to procure and the theatre began showing films produced in Hollywood, mainly MGM films. After the war, the Avon returned to showing foreign and independent films.
In 1988 the vaulted lobby ceiling, which had been hidden since the 1940’s, was uncovered and restored.
The theatre has been in continuous operation since 1938, including during the Blizzard of ’78.