07/04/2004
Rialto Dunedin Expands Into Six-Screen Cinema Complex
The Dunedin Rialto cinema complex is extending its expansion plans by adding an additional large screen theatre. The complex will evolve into a six-screen complex through the addition of three new state-of-the-art screens to its existing operation.
The popular cinema venue will offer a wide variety of both mainstream and art-house film titles to suit the needs of Dunedin movie-goers.
The addition of the sixth screen was anticipated at the time of the December announcement regarding development of two smaller screens, and confirms the owner’s confidence in the Dunedin market and support from its loyal customer base.
The new Rialto six-screen complex will all be operational by late 2004.
The 35mm screen will include surround-sound and high quality seating for a further 150 customers.
Village SKYCITY Cinemas Chief Executive Joe Moodabe says the development will add to the cinema experience for Dunedin movie-goers.
“The new screen will offer high-tech projection and sound and another big screen experience — increasing the entertainment options we’re able to offer Dunedin movie-goers.”
“The Dunedin complex continues to grow in popularity, so the screen additions aim to meet our customers demand for both mainstream and boutique or art-house films,” says Mr Moodabe.
Joint venture partner, Rialto Entertainment Chief Executive, Kelly Rogers, says response from the announcement of the first phase of the development has been positive.
“Our Dunedin audiences were rapt when we announced the initial redevelopment plans, so we are confident that the addition of another large screen will also appeal.”
“With three new screens on the way, we will be able to increase the amount, variety and run-time of our movies. We will have doubled the number of screens at the complex with these additions, demonstrating just how popular the venue is. This expansion will now satisfy the Dunedin market in terms of the screens-to-audience ratio for the city,” says Mr Rogers.
The Dunedin Rialto complex was opened in September 1999 as a three-screen cinema.
Rialto Cinemas is a joint venture between SKYCITY Leisure, Village Roadshow and RIALTO ENTERTAINMENT. RIALTO ENTERTAINMENT is a private company owned by David Ross and Kelly Rogers — and owns 50% of Rialto Cinemas.
Rialto Cinemas currently operates 17 screens throughout New Zealand (located in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin).
SKYCITY Leisure owns 50% of Village SKYCITY Cinemas with Village Roadshow Australia.
ends
For further information contact:
Jodine Laing
Communications Executive
SKYCITY Entertainment Group Limited
Tel: 09 363 6334 or 021 609 120
OR
Kelly Rogers
Chief Executive
RIALTO ENTERTAINMENT
Tel: 09 376 3682 or 021 923 056
Fax: 09 376 3682
E-mail: kelly@rialtoentertainment.com
