AMC Studio 30 has permanently closed after more than 20 years

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- A longtime movie theater favorite in Houston has permanently shut down.

The AMC Studio 30 theater on Dunvale near Richmond closed Sunday, the theater confirmed on its website.

The movie theater first opened in 1997, and often played movies that were not showing anywhere else in the Houston area.

The theater has been closed reportedly due to the lease running out, rather than the COVID-19 economy.

A representative for AMC supplied ABC13 partner's CultureMap with the following statement:

AMC continues to have constructive discussions with our landlords as we work together to effectively manage through this COVID crisis. This includes reaching a global agreement with EPR Properties, one of our most prominent landlord partners, which was executed on July 1, 2020. In conjunction with that agreement, EPR made certain rent concessions in exchange for other rights, including its ability to terminate up to seven leases. In conjunction with this agreement, AMC has ceased operations at six EPR-owned theatre locations nationwide. AMC Studio 30, which closed at the end of business on Sunday, November 8, is the only AMC in this area impacted as a result of this agreement. Any further questions about the future of this location should be directed to EPR Properties.

AMC truly appreciates the support from its guests at AMC Studio 30, and we encourage moviegoers to continue enjoying the AMC experience at our other Houston-area AMCs.

Around the Houston area, other popular AMC mega-theater locations remain open.

Worldwide, the theater industry has struggled amid the coronavirus pandemic, in part due to a lack of blockbuster movies released by studios. Owners announced in October the closure of 536 Regal cinemas in the U.S. and 127 Cineworld and Picturehouse venues in the U.K. Some 45,000 employees are affected.

In August, AMC Theatres, the nation's largest movie theater chain, reopened to audiences with some locations offering special retro ticket prices of 15 cents per movie for one day for vintage movies.

Movie-goers who plan to catch a flick at an AMC will have to follow the chain's COVID-19 guidelines.

According to AMC's website, theaters have reduced auditorium capacities, enhanced cleaning procedures, and increased social distancing standards.

"Please remember to social distance before, during and after the movie. Directional signs and reminders will be posted throughout the theater for guidance," its website read.

Customers can also help by washing their hands, sanitizing frequently and through cashless transactions. Masks will also be required for employees, guests and vendors.

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