While Silverspot Cinema in Chapel Hill might not be screening 2014’s “John Wick,” the business’ leaders and staff might be feeling like the cinematic hitman. In the words that helped launch a popular franchise…. “Yeah, I’m thinking I’m back!”
The theater at University Place, which has been remediating and renovating after sustaining flood damage during July’s Tropical Depression Chantal, announced on Friday it is welcoming patrons back this weekend. A limited amount of screenings were available to purchase tickets for on Friday before a full slate of seven films were available for Saturday and Sunday — including new release “The Conjuring: Last Rites.”
“Seven weeks ago, our Chapel Hill community experienced catastrophic flooding,” wrote Silverspot Chapel Hill’s General Manager Jimmy Lawrence on Facebook. “The very next morning, we began our journey of rebuilding. I want to send out a huge thank you to Carolina Restoration for the incredible work they have done and their professionalism in getting us back open efficiently and safely. I also want to thank the Town of Chapel Hill, community, leaders, vendors, and representatives for their assistance and support throughout this process.”
The theater saw substantial water creep into the building the night of July 6, one of several University Place businesses to see floodwaters of Bolin Creek breach their space. In addition to replacing the carpets and concessions area, Silverspot Cinema said it took the opportunity to complete other replacements too. All-new lighting, seating and upgraded projectors will provide an improved experience for movie-viewers, with two theaters receiving Dolby Atmos premium surround sound technology later this fall.
Lawerence wrote that, in his mind, the biggest accomplishment was the staff retention. The theater has “almost every single member” of its team returning to work. He also said to celebrate the return of film showtimes and to show gratitude to Silverspot’s customers, some more “surprises” will be announced soon.
“To you, our loyal guests, THANK YOU,” Lawrence wrote on Friday. “Your patience, encouragement, prayers, and thoughtful comments have not gone unnoticed. All were deeply appreciated, and they carried us through this challenge. Today, we are proud to unlock these doors once again and welcome you back.”
Silverspot Cinema becomes the latest University Place business to return to normal hours after flood remediation. After being closed for their own renovations, Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill and the WakeMed 365 clinic reopened in August — following the reopening of Planet Fitness and First Horizon Bank in July.
The University Place businesses still closed and recovering from flood damage are The Soap and Shine in the 900 Willow building, as well as the Chase Bank location off South Estes Drive.
Featured photo by Brighton McConnell/Chapel Hill Media Group.
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