Salem's Independent Cinebarre Theater Set for Revitalizing Refresh

SALEM Ore. (KPTV) - Regal Cinemas will be parting ways with the Cinebarre theater located in downtown Salem. However, the property owners are committed to keeping it operational under a completely refreshed concept.

The theater, having operated for almost four decades at the intersection of Northeast Marion Street and Northeast High Street, was predominantly managed by Regal during that period.

Patrick Carney, Kelly McDonald, and Mark Shipman acquired the Salem Center Mall property during the previous spring, encompassing the Cinebarre building as well.

They agreed that Regal’s exit would not mark the conclusion of the theater.

Our downtown area and residents desire having a theater in the city center," McDonald stated to FOX 12 on Tuesday. "These resources could have a positive impact on the community.

McDonald and his investment group OGSC2 intend to enhance the ambiance with brighter decor, install reclining seats, introduce local cuisine and celebrity chefs, and implement an order-through-app system.

They are still discussing things with potential operators, and McDonald wasn’t ready to disclose any names at this point.

He mentioned their intention to commit 'a sum well exceeding seven figures' towards the refurbishment. The cinema will shut down on May 11 as Regal departs, and McDonald anticipates a swift completion to ensure locals can relish movie screenings during the summertime.

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Locals who spoke to FOX 12 said they were intrigued to hear about the plans.

Initially, I felt let down since I believed they would shut it down completely," stated Jacob Martell of Keizer. "But once I learned that Salem Center will be taking over and revitalizing it, I became eager to witness the outcome...it fosters a sense of community and encourages individuals to interact more with one another."

I find that absolutely amazing," stated Adrina McVay from Salem. "The movie theater is so ancient that I struggle to wrap my head around it.

The investment group is also undertaking a massive overhaul of the former Macy’s building directly across the street.

They plan to fill it with family entertainment businesses, dining opportunities, a fitness center, possibly a coworking space, and more.

McDonald said that in this day and age, you have to change the vision to keep a mall alive.

“In some cases you see malls just being demolished, they just wipe them out,” he said. “We’re bringing in some of the more modern uses that you’re seeing in indoor malls all over the United States, which are food and beverage and entertainment.”

The first phase of the Macy’s project could take up to a year and a half to complete.