IU Cinema project takes longer than expected

From IDS Reports

IU Cinema was originally scheduled to open this fall, but has postponed the opening date until January 2011.

Jon Vickers, IU Cinema director, said this delay is because the installation of the digital projection system is taking longer than expected, but will be worth the wait.

“I think it will surprise people,” Vickers said in an IU press release. “The extended time line is also providing the cinema with extra time to develop an even grander and more exciting slate of opening activities.”

When completed, the cinema will house film festivals and premieres and provide room for rehearsal, performance, a dance studio and offices for the IU Department of Theatre and Drama. It will also be one of only about 10 THX-certified facilities on college campuses in the country.

“Once installation is complete, our testing, tuning and certification of the systems, along with the training of our staff, will provide the best cinematic experience for our patrons,” Vickers said in the release.

The renovation process began in October 2009. Previously the building was home to University Theatre, also know as “Little Theatre.”

— Lindsey Erdody