Gov. Cuomo Raises New York City Movie Theater Capacity To 33% Starting Next Week

With the state’s COVID-19 cases on the decline, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has given movie theaters in New York City the ok to raise capacity limits this month. Starting on April 26, cinemas will be able to operate at 33% capacity. Variety reports that safety measures, such as enhanced cleaning protocols and social distancing, will remain in place. 

Many theaters in the city were given the green light to open in early March but remained closed. Due to the state’s capacity restrictions, there was fear that opening would not be profitable. As attendance levels rise, hopefully, more theaters will welcome back moviegoers. 

Following the announcement, Alama Drafthouse announced tickets would go on sale for its Brooklyn location beginning on April 26 for a May 7 opening. The venue will operate with a scaled-back food menu and distanced seating. 

Along with the announcement regarding cinema capacity, Gov. Cuomo also announced that museums and zoos would be able to operate at 50% capacity. Indoor sports arenas are set to go from 10% to 25% capacity on May 19, just in time for the NBA playoffs.