Coolidge Corner Theatre Still Closed Amid Coronavirus, Makes Plea

BROOKLINE, MA — Monday marked the beginning of Phase 3 of Massachusetts's reopening plan, when movie theaters were permitted to reopen with limited capacity and a few caveats. In Brookline, eyes turned to the Coolidge Corner Theatre in the hopes that this meant they, too, would open.

But it's not that easy, said theatre foundation officials.

The state guidelines specify that no more than 25 people at a time can be in an enclosed, indoor theater. For the Coolidge, a nonprofit organization, this means it would have to operate at 7 percent capacity. Other rules have said they couldn't sell concessions. All of that poses "serious financial consequences, especially given the considerable additional costs of implementing safety measures," the Coolidge in an email to supporters.

"The reality is, we cannot commit to a reopening date at this time," theatre officials wrote.

The Coolidge will continue to offer online classes and Q&As, virtual screening room rentals, t-shirts and Curbside Concession sales, which, along with and donations, have helped cover ongoing operating expenses. But the theatre still has a long way to go, officials said as they asked for continued donations.

"We need you more than ever as we plan for the future of the Coolidge in these ever-changing times," they wrote.

Here's how to make a donation and help the Coolidge on its path toward reopening.

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