Newport Theatre bids farewell after 20 years of cinematic memories

Newport Theatre, a long standing staple of the local cinema scene in Mong Kok, has announced that it will cease operations on April 1, marking the city's tenth theatre shutdown since last year.

In a social media post on Monday night (Mar 10), Newport Circuit confirmed that the cinema will continue screening until March 31, explaining shifts in market conditions and operational adjustments as the reasons for the decision.

The company also expressed gratitude to the audience for their 20 years of support, stating memories in the Newport Theatre will always be cherished. 

Current screenings at the Newport Theatre ahead of its closure are “Ne Zha 2,” “Mickey 17,” and “Dark Nuns.” 

The Federation of Hong Kong Filmmakers spokesperson, Tin Kai-man, commented that the closing of another theatre was unsurprising given the challenging market conditions since the post-pandemic, noting that nine cinemas closed last year. 

Tin further pointed out Hong Kong cinemas are facing stiff competition from those in Shenzhen, where movie tickets for the same film can cost as little as HK$30 or $40.

Additionally, Tin mentioned the recent overseas films becoming less appealing to citizens, coupled with the high operation cost, leading local cinemas to struggle for survival in the city.

Founded in 1988, the Newport Circuit operated five cinemas in its peak, but has experienced several closures in recent years. 

With the Newport Theatre ceasing operations, the Hyland Theatre in Tuen Mun will remain as the sole operating cinema under the Newport Circuit.

Tin lamented Newport Circuit was established to compete with the three major cinema chains, describing their recent closures as an ending of an era for traditional theatres.

According to data, a total of nine cinemas shut down last year, including Golden Harvest in Kai Tak, Vwalk, the Metroplex in Kowloon Bay, Cine-Art House in Kowloon City, ACX Cinemas in North Point, MCL Cinemas Plus+ at Plaza Hollywood, Resident Cinema in Causeway Bay, Cinema City in Langham Place, The Metroplex in Kowloon Bay and MCL's South Horizons.