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Cinerama dome to reopen
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The gist
Sony announced the Cinerama Dome will reopen in 2028 with Alamo Drafthouse as operator.
The iconic Hollywood theater's revival signals confidence in the moviegoing experience.
Background
The Cinerama Dome, built in 1963 and designed by Welton Becket Associates, is a historic Hollywood landmark and the first concrete geodesic dome in the world. It was shuttered during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and has remained closed since. In July 2026, Sony Pictures signed a lease to restore and reopen the theater, with Alamo Drafthouse as the primary operator, programming movies at the Dome and 14 other screens at the adjoining multiplex.
How it unfolded
- 1963The Cinerama Dome was built, designed by Welton Becket Associates, as the first concrete geodesic dome in the world.
- 2020The theater was shuttered during the COVID-19 pandemic and remained closed.
- Jul 22, 2026Sony signed a lease at the Dome and ArcLight venues, announcing plans to restore and reopen the theater in 2028.
- Aug 15, 2026 -16, 2026News of the reopening was widely reported, with Alamo Drafthouse confirmed as the primary operator.
Who’s saying what
- Public
- Many Angelenos are delighted to see the Dome reopen, though some would prefer it remain independent.
- Official
- Sony and Alamo Drafthouse confirmed the restoration and reopening, with Alamo preserving the Dome's original signage and exterior.