New Multiplex for the Party People!

Today marks the groundbreaking of what will surely be Royal Oak’s most dynamic new economic magnet/instant parking nightmare, as the aggressively future forward Emagine Movie theater chain puts the first shovels into the ground at their long rumored new location, behind the Main Art Theater in the heart of South East Michigan’s largest out door food court/ crotch rocket viewing area .The big box multiplex chain will also be renovating the former Star Rochester location, brining some needed night life to a vast expanse of strip malls.

Here’s the press release about the Royal Oak spot:

“Emagine Royal Oak and Star Lanes

Emagine Royal Oak will feature 1,700 seats in 10 state-of-the-art auditoriums equipped with digital projection and stadium seating.  In addition, every auditorium will contain several rows of luxury seats with 56” row spacing.  All theatres will be handicap accessible and equipped with hearing impaired listening devices.  Emagine Royal Oak will be the newest and most innovative theatre in the area offering moviegoers the greatest variety of film choices and showtimes in an area that is already a popular destination for dining and entertainment.”

But wait, there’s more!

“The 16-lane bowling center, Star Lanes, will offer a fun experience in a comfortable, upscale environment.  An extensive menu of quality food and beverage will be enjoyed throughout the facility.  Four of the lanes will be located on the mezzanine level which will be ideal for family and corporate outings.”

And here’s where things get tricky:

“The entertainment center will operate a 400-space parking structure to provide patrons a safe and nearby location to park.   The entire facility will create over 100 new jobs.”

Not being a math wizard, I can’t really see any problem in adding  1,700 seats, 16 lanes of bowling  into an already overcrowded downtown entertainment landscape . No possible trouble there, right?  I mean 400 new spacious parking spots! I’m sure that the good people of the Royal Oak City council have this all sorted out, and the business community is just going to love the beejesus out of this busy new development. I’m also certain that the mainstream popcorn fare and huge influx of vampire sex comedy loving teenagers, will in no way impact the respectable, art house loving crowd patronizing the Main just yards away.  As movie fan though I am stoked, because Emagine is a well run outfit, and not only do they have high quality digital screens, but at some locations they have a liquor license, a full bar, and they even have those yummy stuffed pretzels to much on during the flick.  What more could a movie buff ask for?