Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE: RGC), a leading motion picture exhibitor owning and operating the largest theatre circuit in the United States, today announced that the grand opening date for Regal Cinemas Riviera Stadium 8 will be Friday, August 31. The all new entertainment destination is on the same site as the original Riviera Theatre established in 1920. The Regal Riviera is located on Gay Street, along Knoxville's historic theatre row which also includes the Tennessee and Bijou theatres which are now both restored venues for the performing arts.
"Regal Entertainment Group is committed to our hometown, and we are certain that our patrons will be impressed with this state-of-the-art theatre located in the heart of downtown Knoxville," stated Mike Campbell, Regal Entertainment Group Chairman and CEO. "The new Riviera Stadium 8 will feature all the latest amenities along with an impeccable film presentation for an outstanding moviegoing experience."
"I'm thrilled that we now have an opening date for the downtown movie theatre" said Mayor Bill Haslam. "Many people have worked very hard to make the Regal Riviera Stadium 8 a reality. It will bring added energy to our downtown by attracting both moviegoers and new businesses. I look forward to seeing you at the movies and I want to thank all those who played a part in making this happen."
The new Riviera will host exciting promotional events leading up to the official grand opening day. On Monday, August 27, Riviera Stadium 8 will host an Opening Night Celebration. On this evening, there will be a VIP party to celebrate the new theatre and recognize those who made this theatre project possible.
Following this celebration, the public is invited to enjoy preview events on Tuesday, August 28, Wednesday, August 29, and Thursday, August 30. On these days the Riviera will feature $1 movies, $1 popcorn and $1 soft drinks with proceeds benefiting local charities. The festivities on Thursday, August 30 will include a "Salute to Cinema Fireworks Show" choreographed to popular movie theme songs.
"Having been a downtown Knoxville resident I can envision the excitement that our new theatre will provide to the area," said Greg Dunn, Regal Entertainment Group President and COO. "Downtown Knoxville has truly undergone a transformation in the past several years, and we believe the addition of the Regal Riviera Stadium 8 will be a catalyst for continued growth and development. Our new theatre will complement the growing mix of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues that serve the downtown area."
The new Regal Cinemas Riviera Stadium 8 will have approximately 2,000 seats in a total of 8 auditoriums. Regal patrons can enjoy free parking with validation anytime at the State Street Parking Garage. A new walkway connecting the State Street Garage to the Regal Riviera and Gay Street will also be completed in time for the new theatre's debut. This city operated garage offers free parking to everyone on weeknights after 6pm, and all times on weekends.