Kansas clears way for movie theaters, and some may reopen in Johnson County next week
As Kansas begins the next phase of the state’s reopening plan, Liberty-based B&B Theatres said it is excited by news that movie theaters will be allowed to reopen Friday.
B&B, which has movie theaters in Johnson County, said it is unlikely to do so itself as soon as Friday, but it anticipates starting to reopen next week. Other theater chains in the area did not immediately comment on their plans.
Along with museums, non-tribal casinos and other indoor entertainment venues, movie theaters will be allowed to reopen beginning Friday under changes unveiled by Gov. Laura Kelly on Tuesday. Bars, night clubs and swimming pools will stay closed.
Local governments can impose tighter restrictions.
In support of the phased reopeing plan, Kelly cited improving metrics related to the spread of COVID-19, along with hospitalization and death rates.
Statistics from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment show the daily rate of new cases has declined in recent weeks.
B&B Theatres anticipates easing into opening next week, said Paul Farnsworth, B&B’s director of public relations.
Farnsworth said the company is reactivating furloughed employees, preparing buildings and determining what content can be shown.
The theaters will follow local, state and federal health authorities’ recommendations, Farnsworth said.
Last week, B&B reopened the Twin Drive-In theater in Independence.
“It was a clear indication that a great many of our valued guests are ready to get back to the magic of the movies,” Farnsworth said in a statement.
In Overland Park, a spokesman for Glenwood Arts and Rio theaters did not respond to a request for comment in time for publication. A spokesman for AMC Theaters, based in Leawood, declined to comment.
