Kingston, N.Y., welcomes its first movie theater in nearly half a century this Friday. Upstate Films will open a microtheater with fewer than 50 seats, offering an intimate cinematic experience at 591 Broadway.
Upstate Films opens new screening room in Kingston

Key Takeaways:
- Kingston’s first cinema since 1978
- An intimate microtheater seating under 50 people
- Located at 591 Broadway, in a former barbershop
- Officially opens on Friday, Sept. 19
- Operated by Upstate Films
A New Cinema in Kingston
For the first time since 1978, Kingston is about to welcome a new movie theater. Upstate Films has unveiled plans for a screening room at 591 Broadway—an address previously home to a barbershop in Midtown. The decision to bring a cinema back to the area underscores its growing cultural and entertainment aspirations.
The Microtheater Experience
Described as a “microtheater,” this new venue seats fewer than 50 people, creating a uniquely intimate environment for filmgoers. Unlike the large multiplexes, microtheaters offer an up-close engagement with the film, giving every audience member a sense of exclusivity. The redesign of the former barbershop combines efficiency and charm, aiming to serve as a distinctive gathering spot.
Opening Day and Future Prospects
Upstate Films will commence showings on Friday, Sept. 19, marking a significant turning point in Kingston’s entertainment landscape. By reviving cinema in the city, local residents and visitors alike will have a fresh, community-focused space to gather for cultural events. This new screening room promises to breathe life into Midtown, making it a noteworthy milestone in Kingston’s continued revival.