Providence Place Movie and IMAX Theaters Are Going Dark

The last time my wife and I watched a film at a movie theater was during the COVID-19 pandemic. I remember it because I had to wear a mask and was miserable the entire time.

I don't recall the name of the film, as most films these days are less than memorable anyway.

Who goes to the movies anymore? With so many streaming apps and channels available, traditional movie theaters seem as obsolete as malls, eight-track tapes, and leisure suits.

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Remember when Saturday night was date night, often spent at the cinema with a large buttered popcorn, a large Diet Coke with two straws, and your best honey?

Not only did the movie theaters at the Silver City Galleria Mall in Taunton close down, but the entire mall was reduced to rubble.

Attempting to survive bankruptcy and a shift in consumer habits, Providence Place has been fighting for its existence – and now, another gut punch.

Showcase Cinemas Lease Ending

WPRI-TV 12 reported that, "Providence Place mall officials are looking for a new movie-theater operator after learning Showcase Cinemas will not renew its lease in January."

Showcase Cinemas, a subsidiary of National Amusements Inc., has operated 16 screens and an IMAX theater at the mall since the early 2000s.

Searching for a New Movie Theater Operator

Providence Business News first reported that the mall's receiver would like to find a new theater operator before the contract with Showcase Cinemas expires at the end of January.

WJAR-TV 10 confirmed, "Providence Place mall receiver Mark Russo said they are looking for another theater chain to move into the space."