In March 2020, film theaters across the globe shuttered as the COVID-19 pandemic spread in earnest. In an effort to adapt, many independent theaters transitioned to a virtual screening model. “Surprisingly, even though our theater was closed for most of 2020, it was still an extremely busy year for The Roxie,” says Lex Sloan, executive director of the historic Roxie Theater. “Within two weeks of shutting down, we opened Roxie Virtual Cinema and began programming a dynamic slate of films as a way to continue to engage with our audiences.” By the end of 2020, The Roxie had screened more than 200 virtual titles and hosted 30 artists and filmmakers in conversation.
Local News Matters Arts & Entertainment newsletter
End your week with a bit of culture to unwind and refresh. Sign up for our surprising and inspiring options in our weekly newsletter, delivered on Thursdays with news about Bay Area arts and entertainment.
