Story & photos by Patrick Tulfo
THE Kia Theatre, formerly known as the New Frontier Theater, formally opened its doors to the public last Friday. The theater was closed for months for rebuilding and refurbishment, but retained its picturesque shell design that made it a landmark in the 1960s. Kia Theatre aims to reclaim the title of being Manila’s premier cinema, which it (as the new Frontier Cinema) enjoyed for several decades before the mall-based entertainment took over. The Araneta Group, the country’s leading name in entertainment and leisure development, made sure it has everything for the evolving taste of its patrons. Kia Theatre now features a 2,385-seating capacity and is equipped with the latest state-of-the-art audio and lighting technology. Upon entrance, guests will be amazed at the elegant drop-off point that can rival the best of what other theaters around the world can offer. The plush drop-off point leads to a rather huge lobby. It features a staircase reminiscent of those found in five-star hotels in the country. The said staircase leads to an equally luxurious mezzanine, which in this scribe’s mind is a perfect place for stars waiting to meet and wave to their fans during movie premieres.
Meanwhile, it would be hard for patrons not to notice and take a peek at the 305.96-sq-m Kia showroom inside the complex, where they can ogle at the latest offerings of Kia in the country. They can also hang out at different restaurants, cafés and retail shops around the area before and after watching a show.
Araneta Group CEO Jorge L. Araneta shared during the inauguration: “Kia Theatre will be the home of unforgettable performances and events, and a place where families and friends can truly have a wonderful time.” Present during the signing ceremony were Palawan Gov. and Columbian Autocar Corp. (CAC) Chairman Jose Alvarez; CAC President Ginia Domingo; and Araneta, with Management Consultant for Araneta Center Inc. J. Rowell Recinto.
Kia Theatre first opened in September last year for its first show and Araneta staple, The Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival, before and during the Christmas season. This was followed by several concerts and major events at the start of the year including Pilipinas Got Talent Season 5 auditions and the concert of international artist Nate Ruess.
This month music fans are in for a treat as 1980s local music icon New Minstrels and Circus will have a reunion concert, which will be followed by Russell Peters’s Almost Famous World Tour.
In March another 1980s music icon, who popularized the hit “Right Here Waiting,” is set to perform at the venue and last but not the least X-factor winner Little Mix who’s behind the world hit “Black Magic” will be coming in May for their Get Weird Tour.