NCG Cinema Kingsport temporarily closes while remodeling underway

KINGSPORT — Full renovations at the NCG Cinema Kingsport are in progress, according to company representatives. The remodeling project started Monday, Aug. 17, and is expected to be complete by Friday, Aug. 28. NCG Cinemas representative Courtney Kuchar said in an emailed statement Tuesday that the theater is currently planning to reopen for evening shows on Aug. 28, "assuming construction continues as planned." She encouraged customers to visit ncgmovies.com/movie-theater/kingsport for the latest updates. Showtimes will be posted again online once construction is complete, according to Kuchar. "We're very excited to welcome the public back to our newly renovated space and re-introduce our new IMAX experience once the renovation is complete," she said. "At this time, we do not have plans for a formal grand reopening event, but we're looking forward to sharing the updates with our guests and community. These renovations are expected to include a lobby remodel, a full service bar, self-serve popcorn, expanded food and drink menus, as well as reclining luxury seats for every auditorium within the theater. Hull Property Group Vice President John Mulherin told the Kingsport Economic Development Board back in May that the point-of-sale system will be moved over to the left side when you walk into the theater lobby and the upgraded bar service will be to the right. Background The Kingsport IMAX celebrated its grand opening on July 17, with patrons from around the region being able to enjoy the new viewing experience over the past month. Construction for the IMAX theater started on Aug. 20, 2025. The Kingsport Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved almost $2.8 million in incentives for development of the now-open Rural King, IMAX theater and upgrades to NCG Cinema back in November 2023 — as well as a portion said to be used to provide new sewer to help with outparcel development at the mall. Mulherin previously said in inflation and cost overruns pushed the project over budget, ultimately causing delays in the original timeline for opening. Mall owners Hull Property Group initially announced the planned IMAX at a press conference on Oct. 10, 2023. The IMAX theater auditorium includes 225 luxury reclining seats with a screen over 70 feet wide and 40 feet tall.