Construction Begins on Images Cinema's Two-Screen Theater Renovation
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. Images Cinema, the Williamstown movie house, has begun work on its long planned Capital Project to renovate and upgrade its facility.
While its Main Theater is closed for renovations, programming continues in its Lounge space with Bartender hours and Cinema Lounge shows and continuing community events.
"We're very excited to begin work on this important project," said Images Board Chair Kevin O'Rourke. "Images is, and has been for years, an anchor of Spring Street and the Williamstown business community. The overwhelming support of the community, including our members, has been incredible."
So far, the LOOK FORWARD Campaign has raised over $2.4 million dollars from individuals, state and local government, corporations, foundations and local community leaders — enough to start the initial work on the project. Fundraising will continue during construction as the institution aims to meet increased costs and assure successful completion of this project. This renovation project will address Images' responsibility as the only movie theater in the Northern Berkshires and ensure it's long-term success. More details about the Capital Campaign and the renovation can be found at imagescinema.org/look-forward.
Moresi & Associates Development Company is taking the lead on this project, with demolition and renovation of the Main Theater space begun earlier this month. Work will continue through the winter with a projected opening in March. The goal is to create two smaller screening spaces: a 70-seat theater and a second 19-seat theater, allowing for simultaneous screenings and increased opportunities to better serve Images' diverse audience. In addition to the new screening rooms, upgraded and enhanced seating, projectors, audio and acoustics are part of this renovation. Audio/Visual installation will be designed and completed by Boston Light & Sound, and the theater plans were designed by Pittsfield's Hill Engineers in collaboration with theater consultants Charcoal Blue.
The Images Renovation and Construction Taskforce is composed of senior leadership from Images Cinema, including staff, the Board of Directors, and the Advisory Board. Members of this taskforce bring design and construction experience, including from local theater projects, such as the Clark Art Institute and the Adams Theater. The Taskforce is chaired by Matthew Brogan, who before moving to the Berkshires as a full-time resident and as the co-proprietor of the Berkshire Cider Project, worked full-time in theatrical design for major projects throughout the country with Fisher Dachs Associates. This Taskforce has sourced and will oversee the work of all contractors and consultants performing the planning and production of this project.
Tags: images,
