Further details of the major transformation of Perth’s cinema have been revealed.
Work is due to start on April 1 to install a state-of-the-art IMAX screen, making the Playhouse the first independent cinema in the UK to provide this experience.
The redevelopment project will involve the transformation of Screen One, as well as an extensive refit of the building’s interior and food court.
Although the improvements aren’t expected to be completed until summer, efforts have been made to ensure locals can continue to use the cinema.
The other six screens will remain in use during the upgrade and temporary changes will also be made to the food court area.
The introduction of an IMAX facility is part of an agreement between the owners of the Playhouse, G1 Group and the IMAX Corporation.
Cinema development manager for G1 Group, Ken Creelman, said the venture will “revolutionise” the movie-going experience for people across Courier Country.
He added: “The IMAX experience is like no other and we are so excited to see the reaction and response this will get from our customers. Perth Playhouse has been at the centre of the community for so many years but we’re confident it will now become a mecca for cinema-goers from across Perthshire, Tayside and Fife.
“This represents a significant investment in Perth by the G1 Group and will lead to an amazing transformation of the building. We will be looking to make further announcements on the redevelopment as these are finalised.”
The IMAX screen will be launched in July and the first screening is expected to be one of this year’s summer blockbusters.
Relatively new to Scotland, IMAX screens are larger than standard cinema screens, providing a sharper picture, better sound and realistic 3D images.
The Glasgow Science Centre boasts the first IMAX cinema to be built in Scotland, which opened to the public in October 2000.
Since then, screens have also been added to cinemas in Edinburgh and Renfrew.
G1 Group managing director Stefan King said: “As we embark on a revitalisation of the iconic Perth Playhouse, this agreement is the perfect marriage of Scotland’s cinematic history and the world’s most advanced cinematic technology.
“This announcement demonstrates G1 Group’s commitment to investment in Scotland, adding to existing locations in Dundee, Perth and St Andrews.
“The IMAX experience is so immersive that it can help audiences to forget they are in a cinema and transport them into the action and drama of a film.
“We are delighted to partner with IMAX and together look forward to ushering in a new era of movie-going at this landmark site.”
Designed by Kingussie-based architect Alexander Cattanach Jr, the Playhouse first opened in 1933 and has been extended over the years to house seven screens.