WALES’ first all-digital cinema, which was delayed for two months, is set to lift the curtain on Friday, February 13.
The £3.5m new-look Scala Cinema and Arts Centre in Prestatyn was stalled because of bad weather and technical problems.
Last night, general manager Chris Bond said the unveiling would start with award-winning film screenings.
“We’re delighted to be able to confirm the opening night for The Scala and look forward to opening the doors and showing off the venue for the first time,” he said.
“I know that once the public have the opportunity to see the new venue they will be as excited as all those involved in the project are to finally see it open.”
Local man Chris, who as a child was a member of the Little Theatre Rhyl and the Flintshire Youth Theatre, added:
“I have always wanted to have the opportunity to come back to Prestatyn, so taking up the position at the Scala of which I have so many fond memories is wonderful. I feel privileged to be part of it.”
The Scala will offer two 150-seat auditoria both with high definition digital projection systems, one of which will also offer live performance space.
In addition there will be community rooms available for meetings and training, and a café bar.
The centre will also offer a media suite available for training and hire.
It was meant to open in December but a hitch with equipment delayed work for two months.
Bad weather also meant time was lost to builders at the start of the construction project.
The development has been backed by Denbighshire Council, together with Prestatyn Town Council and Welsh Assembly.
Earlier this year, the Daily Post reported how the Scala was to receive a share of a £70,000 grant from the UK Film Council. The £5,467 has been spent on two audio description systems.
In April, Denbighshire council pledged to support the complex, and the project received an additional £101,000 from the Assembly.
The original Scala Cinema was forced to close in December 2000 due to neglect and the high cost of maintenance.
The Friends of the Scala have continued to work tirelessly since 2001 and are committed to ensuring the town, residents and visitors to Prestatyn receive a “quality, manageable and modern replacement cinema and theatre facility”.
A spokesman said: “The new-look Scala will regenerate our town.”
Source: Daily Post article