Instead, customers can buy them at theaters to bring on their next visit, Karp says. All are operating on a limited basis, and IPIC has temporarily paused lending blankets and pillows. In early June, three locations in Texas reopened, followed by two in Illinois in early July.
The coronavirus pandemic forced IPIC theaters to close spring 2020. At the push of a button, “ninja servers” discretely deliver food and drinks via individual aisles leading to the pods. Seating is set in pods of two recliners with a table in between and dividers between parties. In 14 locations along the East Coast as well as Texas, California and Washington, IPIC Theaters are the single stop for a night on the town-combining upscale dining with movies-in theaters seating 40 to 80 viewers, Karp says.
“But we’re also zeroing in on safety and making it our first priority for our guests and employees, to ensure that the experience is one that is safe and sanitary.” A belly and eyeful “We’re providing a unique experience,” Karp explains.
Sandy Karp, vice president of construction and development for IPIC Theaters LLC, says the industry will continue to change to keep movie goers safe and comfortable, and her company may ahead of the curve with a boutique floor plan that reduces density by design and accommodates for social distancing. Sandy Karp | Vice President of Construction and Development | IPIC Theaters LLC