A photo of the Galaxy Cinema taken by Andrew Kenney (via the News & Observer)
As many of you know, the Galaxy Cinema closed last weekend. Everyone seems to be talking about it. People, like me, are reminiscing about the good times they had there. It’s very sad news. It feels like a pain that the local community will feel for quite some time.
So it also seems like there’s a gap to fill.
The Galaxy has a strong, devoted community mourning the loss (as in: actually crying about it). What a great place to see foreign and independent films on a regular basis. The theater had a sense of uniqueness, with its funky lobby furniture and lack of dress code for employees.* Bonus: they also served great beer at The Galaxy.
Who will step up and fill this gap, then? I’m curious and anxious about it.
In June, New Raleigh wrote about bringing The Galaxy to downtown Raleigh (read it here). Being partial to that area, I think that’s a fantastic idea. People who like indie films spend a lot of time in that space already, don’t they? The resurgence of downtown Raleigh has been fun to watch over the years, and I spend money there often to help keep it going. I’d love to see a hip, independent theater thrive there.
Would there be an overwhelmingly positive response to a new indie theater in the area, as I imagine there would be — or is this just hopeful thinking? How could we prove the need for it? Surely there’s a committee for downtown Raleigh commerce or a development company willing to jump on this, right? If not, whom should I call to convince them to get cracking on it? How can I help make this happen?
I guess I have some reading and research to do…
Related Links
- At Cary’s Galaxy, a last picture show flickers to an end (News & Observer, 11/12/2012)
- Galaxy Cinema closes doors after eight years (News 14 Carolina, 11/12/2012)
- The Galaxy Cinema in Cary Closing on Sunday (New Raleigh, 11/9/2012)
*Rant: I don’t understand why bow ties and vests are required attire for employees at some theaters. It seems antiquated and ridiculous. If the theater is super fancy, then it makes sense because theater goers are probably dressed nicely. But if it’s a normal theater with every day people coming in off the street, employees shouldn’t have to wear something that looks like it’s supposed to be a tux but is too cheaply made and ill-fitting to actually be one. It’s a little insulting and obnoxious. OK … rant is over now.