Lakes 12 Theatre to reopen June 26

Mann Theatres recently announced all its theaters, including the Lakes 12 Theatre in Baxter, will reopen June 26.

“Throughout these past few months, we’ve been touched by the outpouring of support from our community,” Stephen Mann, CEO of Mann Theatres, wrote in an emailed newsletter. “Everyone who has ever visited a Mann theatre has their own special connection to movies and the amazing employees who bring that experience to life.

“After careful consideration, we have decided to reopen all Mann Theatres locations on Friday, June 26.”

Mann wrote as they look to reopen, the safety and health of both employees and customers are the first and highest priorities.

“Reopening safely is a very complex project that involves countless new procedures and equipment, all of which require extensive training. This is something we cannot and will not do casually or quickly,” Mann stated.

RELATED: Lakes 12 Theatre and Sunset Cinema offer sneak peek on reopening plans Big tent pole movie releases planned just before the coronavirus pandemic such as the latest James Bond sequel “No Time to Die” or the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe release “Black Widow” were pushed back when it became apparent moviegoers were sheltering in place in a poor economy.
Clean and well-run theaters are something the company has always taken pride in, Mann stated, adding they know this is now more important than ever.

“On top of our daily cleaning procedures, we’re adding hours to each location's payroll to make our routines even more rigorous,” Mann wrote. “This means more time is being spent cleaning our theatres, including cleaning surfaces like counters, touchscreens, and self-service areas, in addition to seat cup holders & armrests in every auditorium.

“Hand sanitizer stations will be located throughout theatres and disinfectant wipes will be available upon request. We're also rolling out plexiglass partitions to concession tills, as well as at the box office. And, out of an abundance of caution, we’ve temporarily suspended free large refills on popcorn and soda.”

For employees, the company reports they will be provided with face masks and gloves to wear at work and healthy hygiene habits, based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, will be encouraged.

“We’re requiring sick employees to stay home and also taking the temperature of every single employee every day before they come to work,” Mann stated.

Other measures include blocking every other seat. Groups must be at least 6 feet apart. Families that come together may sit together. There will be reminders, including floor signs, for social distancing. There will be limits to the number of people allowed inside the theaters. Staff members will be assigned to ensure customers wait in line at an appropriate distance.

For more information on Mann Theatres plans for reopening safely, go online to manntheatres.com/reopen .