Texas movie theater chain the Alamo Drafthouse announced last April that it would open a new five-screen cineplex in the historic Metro Theater on Broadway between 99th and 100th streets. Upper West Siders were ecstatic that it would fill the empty space with movies once again.
But for months after the announcement, little had changed at the theater itself — no building permits were issued and the facade looked just as decrepit as it looked before the announcement. At one point, the theater complained of having “permitting issues.”
Upper West Siders were nervous that the dream would die.
But now, the Alamo has put its stamp on the space — or rather, it’s hung banners from the marquee pledging to open its doors by 2014. There still aren’t any building permits — in fact, a stop work order was issued in November. But let’s be optimistic, shall we?
While you wait for the place to open, read our interview with the president of the Almo Drafthouse company about what we can expect at the new theater.
Thanks to Jonathan for the photo.
I’m not holding my breath.
Thank you for the update on the Alamo Theater build-out. Having moved to the city from Austin last year, we were so excited to hear about getting am Alamo theater on the UWS. It appears that the Alamo – Brooklyn is taking precedence in the building schedule.
I really want this to work but still don’t get how they plan to fit 5 screens in that space. Unless they’re expanding the real estate, we’re talking 5 very puny theaters. That, combined with waitstaff serving messy food & drink sounds like an unpleasant night a the movies.