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Film lovers around Bahrain are rejoicing as the long-awaited opening of the kingdom’s first IMAX cinema took place at Seef Mall Muharraq, writes Kristian Harrison.
Novo Cinemas unleashed their 14-screen multiplex, which houses 1,300 seats, during a tour of the facility which also included a look at the Novo 7-Star theatre experience featuring reclining leather seats, individual iPads for easy ordering and a dedicated chef and butler service.
It is the IMAX screen which will get fans excited though, and Novo Cinemas CEO, Debbie Stanford-Kristiansen, believes that the format will redefine the cinema experience in Bahrain.
She said: “Once you have experienced IMAX, you know that you have experienced something special. You can feel the difference from the moment you step into the room. The theatre geometry demands that each seat has an unobstructed view of the screen, which is spectacular in its own right: floor to ceiling, and curved to fill your peripheral vision. Add to that the crystal clarity and brightness, along with superior audio technology, and you have the most immersive cinema experience available today.”
Debbie, who lived and worked in the kingdom for 10 years before relocating to the UAE where Novo is based, could not hide her delight at returning to open the Cineplex.
She explained: “It’s such a pleasure to visit Bahrain again and to be able to offer Bahrainis a new entertainment experience. Our mission is to offer movie-goers exactly what our slogan says: ‘A Great Time Out’, and so we make it a point to offer good value, provide superior service as well as a packed calendar of activities.
“We aim to provide Bahrainis and visitors from neighbouring Saudi Arabia with a wide variety of attractions, from the biggest blockbusters to alternative content such as live musical shows and sporting events.”
Although this is Novo’s first entry into the Bahrain market, plans are already underway and avenues are being explored to expand and bring the ultimate cinema experience to people across the country.
