Cineplex announces closure of all theatres across Canada due to COVID-19

In an statement Monday evening, Cineplex has announced they’ve made the decision to temporarily shut down all of its cinema locations across the country – in response to the rising concern over the coronavirus pandemic.

The official shuttering of their doors begins today, March 16th and will carry through to April 2nd, at which point Cineplex will reassess the possibility of re-opening their locations.

This is no small closure – the company has over 160 locations nationally, as well as their Rec Room and Playdium entertainment attractions, which will also be affected.

Just last week, Cineplex said it had implemented enhanced cleaning protocols to reduce the likelihood of the spread of coronvirus at its locations – but it was recommendations the public health officials and government officials that led to this decision out of an “abundance of caution.”

“Based on guidance from public health authorities, recent government directives and the escalating dangers of community spread, we are temporarily closing our theatre network, beginning tonight through to April 2, 2020,” reads Cineplex’s release.

“Bookings will be cancelled for a full refund and we have already begun processing ticket refunds back to your original method of payment. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you back soon.”