The historic venue’s Screen 1 will be converted to include a significantly larger, curved screen spanning from floor to ceiling and wall to wall, ready to offer the full IMAX Experience to film lovers.
Justin Ribbons, CEO of Empire Cinemas, said: “The introduction of IMAX further reinforces our commitment to providing the most cutting edge, immersive viewing experience to our customers and will reinforce
“The Empire Leicester Square’s position as the home of the UK’s best cinema-going experience for years to come.”
“IMAX has theatres in some of the world’s most iconic locations and we’re delighted to partner with Empire Cinemas to add the famous Empire Leicester Square to this celebrated list,” said Andrew Cripps, President, IMAX EMEA.
The Empire first opened its doors as a theatre in 1884, and from the earliest days of the moving image has been at the forefront of advances in cinema technology, where, in March 1896, Louis and Auguste Lumière presented the first theatrical performances of a projected film to a paying U.K. audience.
In addition to the IMAX screen, Empire will develop a second auditorium hosting a large format digital screen – providing fans a further opportunity to enjoy the latest releases in ultimate comfort.
Building work has already commenced with the new screens expected to open in late 2013 or early 2014.
The Empire Leicester Square will remain open during the construction work, with the other seven auditoria continuing to screen the latest film releases.