by Thinus Ferreira
Ster-Kinekor has completed the refurbishment of the cinema chain's Ster-Kinekor Tyger Valley cinema complex in Cape Town, which will reopen on Friday 9 October with APEX Cinema as well as a SKX-perience Free-Roam Virtual Reality (VR) Arena.
Ster-Kinekor says the redone cinema complex now features four technological and experiential offerings, as well as a Costa Coffee kiosk in the cinema foyer.
Launching its APEX Cinema, Ster-Kinekor is introducing its new premium large-format cinema experience, which is making its debut at the reopened Tyger Valley complex.
The auditorium has a large
wraparound screen that extends close to the walls and ceiling.
Two of the cinemas will reopen as Cine Prestige theatres, served by their own lounge.
A third cinema has been transformed
into Ster-Kinekor's colourful Kids' Cinema for younger audiences.
The SKX-perience Free-Roam VR Arena offers escapism for up to six players.
Lynne Wylie, Ster-Kinekor Theatres chief marketing officer, says "This four-part entertainment offering adds to the overall Tyger Valley experience with the APEX cinema, luxurious Cine Prestige theatres, our popular Kids' Cinema format and the new SKX-perience Free-Roam VR Arena, giving audiences even more ways to enjoy one destination".
According to Lynne Wylie, APEX has been designed "for movie lovers looking for more from their cinema experience by combining premium technology, larger-scale presentation and immersive sound to make every movie moment feel bigger, bolder and that much more engaging".
It is powered by 4K laser projection, delivering brighter images, exceptional clarity, and richer detail on the screen.
"Complementing the visuals is an advanced 16.1-channel sound system, enhanced by multiple subwoofers positioned around the
auditorium and behind the screen, resulting in powerful, immersive audio that audiences both hear and feel," according to the cinema chain.
Within the SK-perience Free Roma VR Arena, 6 players enter "hyper-realistic digital worlds".
"Kitted with state-of-the-art headsets, precision haptic controllers and advanced spatial tracking, players can physically
walk, dodge and interact in real time across a seamless multi-sensory playground."
This arena, for people 12 and older, has an expansive, curated game library ranging from high-octane tactical shooters such as
The Finals and sci-fi combat adventures to underwater expeditions in
Ocean Depths and life-size prehistoric explorations in Dinosaur Park.
The Cine Prestige theatres have a combination of single and double red leather recliner chairs. Moviegoers can have snacks and drinks in the adjoining lounge or have it served to them at their seat in the cinema.
Ster-Kinekor is also bringing its Kids' Cinema concept to Tyger Valley.
"This offering gives younger audiences their very own special 'me time' at the movies – not to mention a chance for parents to sit back and relax while their children are being kept busy and entertained," says Lynne Wylie.
"The Kids’ Cinema provides the perfect environment
for them to spend a few hours, enjoying the entertainment on the big screen or the fun-filled, playground-like facilities inside the cinema."
"What makes it different is that it's designed specifically to cater to the needs of youngsters – it has its own foyer area with activity tables and a catering counter, and brightly coloured beanbag seats."
After it was added at Ster-Kinekor V&A Waterfront and Blue Route, Costa Coffee is opening another stand-alone coffee kiosk at Tyger Valley.
"Our investment in Tyger Valley is about more than just showing movies; it is about creating tailored, unforgettable spaces for every type of guest," says Lynne Wylie.
"Whether
you want an opulent date night, a stress-free family afternoon out, a powerful big-screen blockbuster experience or a free-roam virtual reality adventure, this upgraded complex now delivers it all under one roof."
