Operators of the Chatham Capitol Theatre are reversing their decision to reopen the facility this December.
Last week, it was announced that the theatre would open its doors for the first time in nine months to screen Christmas movies.
The theatre's plan was to show a different movie each day from December 16 to 19 with only 50 people allowed at each showing and with social distancing in place.
However, the idea was met with some pushback online from residents.
On Tuesday, the theatre announced that it would not be proceeding with the plan.
Heather Slater, manager of arts and culture for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, said the decision was made to cancel the movie screenings in order to ensure the health and safety of the theatre's patrons.
"While we are currently under 'Yellow: Protect', and therefore still allowed to show movies in our theatre for up to 50 patrons at a time, we are also aware that case numbers are rising and areas surrounding CK are in or approaching 'Red: Control' status," she explained.
In addition, Slater said Chatham-Kent's Medical Officer of Health has recently been vocal in advising against gatherings over the holidays, advice that she said theatre staff "respect and support."
"We look forward to resuming weekly movies as soon as possible in the new year," said Slater.
