Hamptons Happenings: An Icon Reopens
March 15, 2021
Following a devastating fire in December 2016, The Sag Harbor Cinema- a true gem of the Hamptons- is finally reopening at the end of March. Known for its screenings of independent and foreign films, the theater first opened in 1915 and named Sag Harbor Cinema in 1978.
The programming for the spring includes first run films, family and children's films, classics, foreign films, documentaries and silent films. Also expect retrospectives of great film-makers. A year-long retrospective of D.A. Pennebaker's films is on the docket, for example. The longtime Sag Harbor resident is behind classic movies such as “Elaine Stritch: At Liberty” and passed away in 2019. Pennebaker’s film-making partner and wife, Chris Hegedus, and his son, Frazer, is collaborating with the theater to bring his films to the cinema
What will the new theater look like? I should say theaters- the original 480-seat theater is now divided into two. There’s also a third 40-seater room which will be used for screenings.
Executive Director Gillian Gordan says that the new space is meant to be a hub for the community and will eventually have a cafe, concession stands, a lounge and several terraces. Water views are another highlight.
Luminaries who serve on the Sag Harbor Cinema’s board include artist April Gornik, fashion designer Nicole Miller and actor Julie Andrews- yes, the same Julie Andrews from “The Sound of Music.”