BY KAREN BOSSICK
The Argyros Center for Performing Arts will reopen Friday with its café open for business and free screenings of documentary and independent films.
The films will feature a free-admission, walk-in walk-out model that will enable patrons to be inside the theater for as long—or as short—as they are comfortable. Seating will be socially distanced.
And they can grab an espresso, beer and wine, pastries and light snacks at the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Lobby and Café, which will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
“This model will, to a degree, transform the Tierney Theater from a live events space into more of an installation-like exhibition hall,” said Margaret Hamamoto, marketing and development director for the center. “We are hoping it can serve as a tranquil, meditative community space that is safe and comfortable for our patrons.”
The fireworks documentary “Passfire” will stream over the 4th of July weekend with show times at 2 and 4 p.m. The film offers a glimpse at the people and cultures behind fireworks around the globe.
“Idaho From Above” will screen during the remainder of July with showtimes every hour on the hour from 2 to 6 p.m. The film by Wide Eye productions takes people on a virtual tour by helicopter of Idaho’s diverse landscape from the wheat fields of the Palouse in northern Idaho to Bruneau Canyon in the south.
Both films have been selected, in part, because they are to some degree non-narrative in nature and therefore more compatible with a walk-in, walk-out viewing experience.
More films will be secured as the summer goes on.
CHRIS BOTTI RESCHEDULED
The Argyros has rescheduled its Chris Botti show on July 25, 2021. Patrons will be notified by email of the details and an option to refund/exchange/donate their tickets.