New Jersey and Pennsylvania Movie Theaters Close Down Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
Written by SOURCE on March 14, 2020
More than a dozen movie theaters in New Jersey and Pennsylvania have closed down in wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, state officials ordered the closures as a precautionary measure against the spread of the deadly disease. The move comes after both states canceled mass gatherings, in addition to closing various schools and businesses. As of Saturday afternoon, the closures effected 10 AMC theaters “and a handful of Regal sites” in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, and Bergen County, New Jersey.
“In Montgomery County, I am ordering the closure of all schools, community centers, gyms and entertainment venues,” Gov. Wolf announced Thursday, as reported by Fox 29. “This includes all Y’s, theaters, sporting events, concerts, and I am strongly recommending the closure of non-essential retail facilities. It includes schools of all types such as pre-K, higher education and private schools.”
THR reports that there are now 47 confirmed coronavirus cases in Pennsylvania, 20 of which are in Montgomery County. New Jersey currently has 69 reported cases, with 25 in Bergen County.
The coronavirus outbreak has hit the movie industry hard. Domestic box office revenue is projected to take a dip this weekend as more and more moviegoers self-quarantine. There’s also a growing list of film productions have been put on hold, as health experts attempt to combat the disease.
AMC and Regal recently announced they would cap theater attendance by 50 percent beginning Saturday. According to TIME, the policy will be in effect until April.
