TOWN OF TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Screening Room Cinema & Arts Cafe is getting a fresh start in Tonawanda.
After more than a decade at the Boulevard Mall, the local cinema is relocating to Elmwood Commons at 3200 Elmwood Ave.
The new location is still under construction, but owner Bob Golibersuch is already seeing his vision take shape.
The former school cafeteria will be transformed into a 100-seat boutique cinema featuring a 17-foot screen, bar, kitchen and a variety of seating options, including couches, overstuffed chairs, cafe tables and bar seating.
Golibersuch says the goal is to maintain the intimate atmosphere that has set the Screening Room apart from traditional movie theaters.
“Kind of more of a, a laid-back mel atmosphere to come experience movies that you may have seen before, new independent films, but it's just a different type of atmosphere than the typical multiplex,” Golibersuch said.
WATCH: The Screening Room reopening in the Elmwood Commons
The Screening Room first opened in 1993 at Northtown Plaza before eventually moving to the Boulevard Mall.
When the mall closed, the business was forced to find a new location. Golibersuch says the support from longtime customers and local organizations encouraged him to keep the business going.
Now, the Screening Room is preparing for its next chapter in Tonawanda.
The theater plans to host a preview HorrorFest from October 27 through October 31, followed by an official grand opening in December.
Golibersuch says he hopes the new space will bring back longtime customers while attracting new moviegoers.
“I think it'll be exciting. It should be a great atmosphere for people to come experience, and we're looking forward to, you know, getting all our previous people and some new customers,” he said.
The Screening Room's relocation comes as the future of the former Boulevard Mall property continues to take shape.
7 News is awaiting a status update from the Town of Amherst and Benderson Development on the timeline for the redevelopment of the former mall site.
