Emagine Royal Oak plans to reopen Friday to launch a Juneteenth-themed film festival, even though Michigan movie theaters have yet to be given the OK for such…
Emagine Royal Oak plans to reopen Friday to launch a Juneteenth-themed film festival, even though Michigan movie theaters have yet to be given the OK for such a move.
The multiplex chain, which has 10 theaters in Michigan and locations in Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, said all net ticket proceeds from the festival, which will run for a minimum of one week, will benefit the United Negro College Fund.
The announcement was made Monday afternoon by Emagine Entertainment, even though indoor theaters are still waiting for the green light to reopen under the rules set by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
Whitmer spokeswoman Tiffany Brown said via email that as of Monday, under an executive order temporarily prohibiting large assemblies and events, indoor movie theaters are still closed, while outdoor theaters like drive-ins are allowed.
Most of Michigan has reopened since strict measures were imposed three months ago by Whitmer in response to the COVID-19 crisis. The stay-at-home order for residents was lifted June 1.
On Monday, hair salons, nail salons, spas and massage businesses were allowed to reopen, and bottle and can return machines were cleared to begin operating again.
The National Association of Theater Owners of Michigan had no comment on the Emagine Royal Oak reopening.
Paul Glanz, the chairman of Emagine Entertainment, said he has not been in touch with Whitmer’s office about the Juneteenth Film Festival.
« This is born out of a desire and belief that the time is right to help our African-American brothers and sisters, » said Glantz. He described the event as a way to do something for a « highly worthy organization » like the United Negro College Fund, which was founded in 1944 and awards more than 10,000 student scholarships worth more than $100 million each year.
