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Upstate Films has opened a new theater, Upstate Midtown, in Kingston. This marks the first movie theater in the city since 1978. The venue is located at 591 Broadway, just two doors from the Ulster Performing Arts Center, and was previously a barbershop. It features a 42-seat screening room. Paul Sturtz, a partner in the venue along with Jason Silverman, described the space as "exciting" and "inspirational," noting that it was carved out of a regular storefront with nine-foot ceilings and about 1,000 square feet.
Upstate Films also operates Starr Cinema in Rhinebeck and the Orpheum Theatre in Saugerties, as well as the Hudson Valley Picture Show, a traveling venue. The new theater will officially open on Friday, September 19, with screenings and special events planned.
The opening of Upstate Midtown is part of Upstate Films' commitment to providing spaces where people can connect through cinema. The organization is working to improve accessibility in its venues.