The Elwood Quad movie theater in East Northport, New York, is reopening after being closed since October 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Owner Jay Levinson, who operated the theater for 20 years, renegotiated rent and partnered with two new business partners to make the reopening possible.
The theater is undergoing renovations, including the installation of deluxe recliner seats, new floors, new screens and projectors, and a new LED marquee sign. A significant change is the addition of an adult beverage concession.
Levinson aims for a June or July opening and plans to maintain low prices compared to larger cinemas. Birthday parties, a popular feature, will continue at no increased cost, and will now be available at any time of day.
The theater initially closed in March 2020 due to a statewide executive order. Levinson faced financial difficulties and announced the closure in October 2020 due to the pandemic’s impact. The theater's capacity will be smaller due to the new, larger seating. Levinson also plans to reopen The South Bay Cinemas in Babylon with similar improvements.