Water Tower Cinema, a long-standing local movie theater in Montgomeryville (also called “Eric 7” by many locals), is now under renovation. A theater chain, Flagship Premium Cinemas, is taking over operations and rolling out upgrades to make the cinema more modern and comfortable. 

The idea is to keep the heart of the theater, the welcoming, local feel, while adding premium touches. The renovation is being done in phases so the cinema can stay open during much of the upgrade. 

Curious about what will change? Keep reading, you’ll see how your next movie visit might feel very different (in a good way).

Who Is Behind The Renovation & Takeover Of Water Tower Cinema?

Flagship Premium Cinemas, based in Baltimore, will assume control of Water Tower Cinema starting this October. The property is owned by The Goldenberg Group, which has held it since 2019. 

Interestingly, current staff will be retained. So those familiar faces, the ticket sellers and ushers, are expected to continue their roles under the new operator. 

How Much Is Being Invested & In What Areas?

The renovations cost Flagship $1.5 million and are divided into a number of steps. The initial stage will address the exterior, lobby, gallery spaces, the snack bar, and the largest auditorium. The other auditoriums will be renovated later on a one-by-one basis.

New services will involve adding luxury heated recliners, redone food and drink service bars, and a contemporary interior design with a balance of style and comfort. 

Will The Theater Close During Renovation?

For much of the work, the theater will remain open. 

There will be short closures at times; for instance, the theater planned to close for a day or two near the start of the transition.

Flagship says it has experience with “phased renovations” that minimize disruption to the movie-going experience. 

What New Experiences Can Moviegoers Expect?

Seating Improvements: You’ll see plush, heated recliner seats in multiple auditoriums — the kind you sink into with ease. 

  • Improved Concessions and lobby: Snack bar area will be renewed. You will probably encounter updated food selections, self-service popcorn dispensers and updated counters.
  • Refined Designs and atmosphere: The interior design will be renovated to include new modern finishes, lighting and decor to bring the theater a new and posh feel without sacrificing the local taste.
  • Tickets, Gift Cards and Events: The current gift cards and tickets that have already been purchased will be accepted under the new system. Bookings made in the theater will remain supported. 

Why This Renovation Matters To The Community?

The Water Tower Cinema is part of a larger retail hub called Water Tower Square. It covers ~33,000+ square feet, a substantial anchor in that shopping area. Considering the population and the rate of income in the surrounding areas of Montgomeryville, there is a high demand of both comfort and entertainment in the area.

This renovation will provide the theater with an opportunity to compete better with bigger multiplexes and still feel like it is in a neighborhood.

When Will All This Be Done?

The renovation is expected to run over 18 months (across all phases). Work is intended to begin in October, coinciding with Flagship taking over operations. 

As each phase wraps, more auditoriums and common areas will get their upgrades, so you’ll see incremental improvements over time.

Will Prices Change Or Staff Be Replaced?

Pricing is expected to remain stable “for now.” All current staff will be kept on. Flagship seems committed to building from the existing team rather than starting fresh.

Final Thoughts

The renovation of Water Tower Cinema marks a new chapter. It blends nostalgia and comfort with elevated, stylish upgrades. The best part? The theater doesn’t have to shut down completely, patrons can still enjoy films while changes roll out. If all goes as planned, the upgraded venue will offer premium moviegoing at home-town prices.