Dear Princess Friends,
Our number one priority is to keep our community and our staff safe.
This is what we have done for Phase 3 compliance:
- installed plexiglass shields at our box office / concession stands
- reduced seating capacity in the Twin to 42 seats per auditorium. We have reduced the Original's capacity by 75%, to 48 seats
- ensured ample physical distancing by cordoning off "no sit" zones in the cinemas
- steam-cleaning of carpets and seats, as well as extensive cinema cleaning prior to re-opening
- placed markers and signs in the cinemas to remind patrons of 2 metre physical distancing
- hand-sanitizers for guest use
- trained staff in increased cleaning and preventative hygiene measures, including the wearing of masks, frequent and effective hand-washing and social distancing protocols at all times
- increased fresh air exchange ventilation and upgraded HVAC filtration in the cinemas
This is what our re-opening will look like:
- reduced showtimes with more time between shows for cleaning
- staggered shows and more time between shows ensures there are no queues waiting for the next show. In some cases, we may just screen one show a day.
- concession combos have been added to our advance ticket option, and we would encourage patrons to purchase tickets in advance, as seating is limited. We do not have reserved seating selection at this time, so we would kindly ask guests to arrive at least 15 minutes before showtime. Restricted seating areas are clearly marked with yellow caution tape.
- in accordance with Waterloo Region Board of Health, we will require all patrons to wear a mask upon entering the cinema. If patrons have forgotten their mask at home, we will have masks for sale for $1. Unless patrons are eating or drinking, or have a medical condition that prevents the wearing of a mask, we ask that patrons wear masks during the film (in accordance with Waterloo Region bylaw)
- if you don't wish to buy advance tickets, please consider using debit "tap" to simplify transactions. We now have debit at the Original!
- seats, cupholders and arm rests will be wiped down with disinfectant cleaners between shows. High-touch areas in the cinemas will be cleaned by staff at regular intervals throughout their shifts
- at the Twin (only), patrons are permitted to use the "emergency exits" to the right of the screen at the end of the film, if they wish. We ask that patrons be patient during exiting, and do so in an orderly fashion, maintaining 6-feet separation. Please dispose your garbage in our bins
- frequent cleaning of washrooms by staff; physical distancing in effect in washrooms.
- professional deep-cleaning and sanitizing of the cinema auditoriums every night
It goes without saying that we will ensure our health and the health of our staff through daily monitoring. As owner/operators and residents of Waterloo, the health of our community is of utmost importance to us.
With the measures we have taken and in light of the fact that our auditoriums are well-ventilated large rooms, we strongly believe that our cinemas will be a very safe place through the diligence of us all. If you are feeling ill, have travelled or have come in contact with anyone who has travelled or may have contracted COVID-19, we ask that you get tested and stay at home.
We recognize that COVID-19 may be a fact of life for some time to come; however, this does not mean we should stop doing the things that are meaningful to us AS LONG AS WE DO THEM RESPONSIBLY. Going to an independent cinema is a responsible way to enjoy "normal life" and appreciate and support local community at the same time.
We can't wait to see you! Film and showtime announcements coming soon!
Hand-sanitizer ready and Masks on!
~ John, Wendy, Joel, Josh and everyone at the Princess
ps/ If you have purchased our popular Spring Passes, they are ready for pick-up at the Twin. We hope to add a "Spring Pass reservation" option for our advance ticketing. More details to come.
