Modesto’s State Theatre closes again after reopening to show films
After reopening last weekend to screen films, the State Theatre in Modesto has decided to close its doors again because of the coronavirus pandemic.
“With COVID-19 cases on the rise once more and out of an abundance of caution, The State Theatre will be closed for movies until further notice,” read an email that went out on Thursday afternoon.
The number of coronavirus cases has seen a surge in recent days in California and in Stanislaus County.
Movie theaters, museums and galleries were given the green light to reopen on June 12 by Gov. Gavin Newsom, with a limit of 100 people allowed inside. The State reopened on Friday, June 19.
“Our number one priority is the safety of our staff and to our community that continues to support us during this unprecedented time,” the email read.
Executive Director Kirstie Boyett said that, combined with the upswing in pandemic cases, “our attendance wasn’t there,” with a high point of 37 people turning out for a film.
The State’s website had indicated the movie “The Trip to Greece” would play June 26-July 7, but that has been canceled.
“The community isn’t ready,” Boyett said. “We’re just trying to make the best choices for the community and the theater.”
This story was originally published June 25, 2020 at 3:45 PM.
