Amherst Cinema cutting back on showtimes
AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP)– An iconic arthouse movie theater in Amherst is looking to cut costs while still serving the community.
The Amherst Cinema says they have seen losses for the past three years due to ticket sales and memberships not returning to pre-covid sales and an increase in overhead costs. As a result, they have decided to discontinue showtimes that show the least attendance: Sundays at 9pm and Wednesdays at 2pm and 9pm. The Masked Morning program is now on Sundays only.
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The Cinema decided that reducing its operations from four to three screens is the mostsustainable path forward. As a result, in mid-May, the Cinema will permanently shutter its Studio Theater (a space it leases rather than owns) and proportionally reduce staff to align with operations.
'We're taking measures to reduce costs as part of a broader organization-wide sustainability plan, directing resources where they can have the greatest impact and safeguarding our ability to deliver on our mission. We will also redouble efforts to increase membership levels and philanthropic gifts,' said Barton Byg, president and chair of the Cinema's Board of Directors.
Despite the losses, the Cinema is still committed to bringing the same caliber and quality of films and special event programs, and has invested in upgrades with the latest equipment for improved projection and sound quality.
The Amherst Cinema is an independent nonprofit arts and education center and will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026.
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