Almost 14 years after it was first mooted, Galway will finally get a dedicated arthouse cinema when the Pálás opens its doors this coming Friday.
The state-of-the-art cinema will have three screens, a cafe and a bar, and is set to be run by Element Pictures - who also own and operate the Lighthouse Cinema in Dublin's Smithfield.
The route to the Pálás - formerly known as Solas Picture Palace - has taken numerous diversions over the years, with various funding, contractual and structural problems arising. Element agreed to take over operations in late 2016 in a 30-year lease deal that will see them pay no rent for the first 25 years. They have, however, plowed €1 million into finishing the cinema.
The cinema, which is located on Merchants Road Lower in the city centre, will open this Friday, February 23rd and promises "an eclectic mix" of Irish and international films. Like the Lighthouse, you can also expect a similar programme of special events, classic films, animations, foreign language and more.
Tickets are 'on sale soon', according to the website.
