Sony and Alamo Drafthouse to Restore and Reopen Los Angeles' Cinerama Dome by 2028

Sony Pictures Entertainment announced plans to restore the Cinerama Dome, a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument that has been closed since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Renovation work is slated to begin next month, with the theater expected to reopen in early 2028 under the management of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, a Sony-owned chain.

The company said the restoration will preserve the venue’s distinctive curved-screen design and traditional concession service, though Alamo Drafthouse will not provide its usual dine-in format. In addition, Sony will assume control of the adjacent former ArcLight Theater Hollywood, a 14-screen complex with 35mm and 70mm projection capabilities, which will also be operated by Alamo Drafthouse.

"The restoration will honor the landmark’s distinctive aesthetic character, immersive large-format curved-screen presentation, and traditional concession experience that have made it a beloved destination for generations," the announcement read.

"As our new West Coast flagship, we will offer extraordinary programming and events, while returning to Los Angeles one of its most beloved and culturally significant moviegoing destinations," said Michael Kustermann, CEO of Alamo Drafthouse and head of Sony Pictures Experiences.

The Dome, built in 1963 by Pacific Theatres founder William R. Forman, entered bankruptcy in 2021 when its parent chain shuttered. Community groups have long advocated for its revival. Sony’s acquisition marks the first confirmed plan to bring the iconic theater back to active use.