JOIN USClearview Cinemas, AMC Entertainment and Regal Entertainment, which operate numerous multiplexes in New York City and other East Coast hubs are monitoring the situation carefully in New York, The Hollywood Reporter said.
"Out of concern for the safety of our guests and staff, all Clearview Cinemas will be closed on Saturday August 27th and Sunday August 28th. We plan to reopen on Monday August 29th. Wishing you and your family a very safe weekend," read a statement on the official website of Clearview Cinemas.
As a precaution, government officials in New York and Philadelphia are shutting down public transportation on Saturday, making it difficult for employees of movie theaters and retail stores to get to work.
The domestic box office is is expected to take a substantial hit because of Irene. According to anecdotal reports, movie-going has already slowed down in New York City.
That's bad news for the three new films opening this weekend. The Luc Besson-produced action film 'Colombiana', starring Zoe Saldana, comedy 'Our Idiot Brother' starring Paul Rudd, Elizabeth Banks, Zooey Deschanel and Emily Mortimer; and the Guillermo del Toro-produced horror movie 'Don't Be Afraid of the Dark', starring Katie Holmes and Guy Pearce.
By some estimates, box office revenues could be down 10 to 20 per cent. Even the Broadway League issued an official statement saying that all Broadway performances in New York City had been canceled for the weekend.
"The safety and security of theatregoers and employees is everyone's primary concern.
As a result of the suspension of public transportation by government authorities in preparation of Hurricane Irene, all performances will be cancelled on Saturday, August 27th and Sunday, August 28th," said Paul Libin, chairman of The Broadway League.