The Cinerama Dome, a landmark Hollywood theater that closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, is slated for restoration and reopening in early 2028. Sony Pictures Entertainment, which owns Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, announced plans to operate the iconic dome theater and an adjacent 14-screen complex.
Alamo Drafthouse intends to preserve the Cinerama Dome's distinctive geodesic exterior and its large logo, features that have made it a Hollywood landmark since its debut in 1963. The dome itself will not offer in-theater dining, a service common at other Alamo Drafthouse locations. Ravi Ahuja, Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, stated that the Cinerama Dome holds a unique affection, history, and cultural significance, representing the singular experiences Alamo champions. The dome will serve as Alamo Drafthouse's new West Coast flagship theater.
The theater's large, curved screen is capable of 70mm projection, a format gaining renewed attention. Commissioned by Pacific Theatres founder William R. Forman, the Cinerama Dome was designed as a state-of-the-art cinema experience using three projectors for its custom screen. At the time of its closure in April 2021, it was one of only three theaters globally equipped with this capability. Pacific Theatres cited the COVID-19 pandemic as the reason for its closing.
In addition to the Cinerama Dome, Alamo Drafthouse will also reopen the 14-theater complex next to the dome. This complex was previously operated by ArcLight Cinemas, which also ceased operations in 2021. The theaters in this complex will feature in-theater dining.