Cineplex Theatre to Open at the IWK Health Centre

January 18, 2017

An innovative collaboration between the IWK Health Centre, IWK Foundation and Cineplex – brings the joy of movies to IWK patients and their families

Toronto, ON, January 18, 2017 (TSX: CGX) – Cineplex, in partnership with the IWK Health Centre and the IWK Foundation, today announced plans to transform the IWK Health Centre’s O.E. Smith Auditorium into a new theatre where patients and families can enjoy movies and other entertainment.

Scheduled to open in May, the Cineplex O.E. Smith Theatre will be available free of charge to IWK patients and families -- enabling them to experience the joy and entertainment provided by movies and other special events programming during their stay at the IWK.  This multi-purpose facility will also enable the Health Centre community to have an updated meeting and presentation theatre and will be the transformed home of the annual IWK Telethon for Children on CTV. 

“This is a unique collaboration and we are extremely proud to be able to offer this opportunity to Atlantic Canadians,” said Ellis Jacob, President and CEO, Cineplex.  “We take for granted the opportunity to go to the movies when we want but those confined to hospital, don’t have that same ability – until now.  I can’t think of a better way to put a smile on the face of a child or adult who is hospitalized then to help them escape their treatment for a little while and enjoy a movie.”

“We all know and appreciate the enjoyment of the movie-going experience.  Being able to bring the Cineplex theatre experience to the IWK creates a wonderful opportunity for children and families to be transported from the daily routines of their hospital stay to a world of action, adventure and fun,” says Tracy Kitch, President and CEO of the IWK Health Centre. “In addition, this technology and equipment will also provide us with a modern space for teaching, learning and other community events that take place at the IWK Health Centre.” 

“We are extremely proud to partner with Cineplex,” said Jennifer Gillivan, President and CEO, IWK Foundation. “The IWK would not be the centre of excellence it is today without the generosity of donors and we are extremely grateful to the Cineplex team, and their dedicated partners for making this innovative project a reality.”