Salt Lake City's Broadway Centre Cinemas Undergoes $2M Renovation

Upgrades signal broader industry trends toward enhanced comfort, accessibility, and communal moviegoing experience.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Salt Lake City's Broadway Centre Cinemas is undergoing a $2 million renovation, replacing its current seating with more comfortable and accessible options. The changes, slated for completion in April, will introduce 'Boho-luxe' and 'Modern classic' cinema options, moving away from energy-intensive recliners in favor of 'wide-base gliding seats' and 'roomier seating' in warm earth tones.

Why it matters

The renovation reflects a broader industry trend toward creating more intentional and communal cinema spaces, with a focus on fostering a shared moviegoing experience. Additionally, the improved accessibility features, such as new viewing platforms, demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and broadening the appeal of the theater.

The details

Beyond the seating upgrades, the renovation includes improved access for guests with mobility challenges, including new viewing platforms. This focus on accessibility is becoming increasingly common as theaters strive to cater to diverse audiences. The renovation will also utilize natural and recycled materials, funded in part by a grant, showcasing the theater's commitment to sustainability and long-term value.

  • The renovations are expected to be completed in April, with the first phase finished in March.
  • The current blue seats were repurposed from Megaplex Theatres in Lehi in 2011 and had 'served Broadway well for more than a decade.'

The players

Tori A. Baker

The film society's president and CEO.

Arts Humanities Environment/Cultural Initiative Trust

The organization that provided a grant to fund the use of natural and recycled materials in the renovation.

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What they’re saying

“Recliners can 'physically separate patrons and subtly shift the experience toward isolation.'”

— Tori A. Baker, President and CEO, Film Society (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

At least three of the six auditoriums will remain open during the renovation, and the Salt Lake Film Society website (https://slfs.org/best-seat/) will provide updates on the progress and seating maps.

The takeaway

The Broadway Centre Cinemas renovation demonstrates a commitment to creating a more intentional and communal moviegoing experience, with a focus on accessibility, sustainability, and fostering a sense of community. This approach aligns with broader industry trends and highlights the role of independent cinemas in driving innovation in cinema design.