Crystal Lake's Regal Showplace movie theater to get recliners in overhaul

CRYSTAL LAKE – Regal Crystal Lake Showplace Stadium 16 is set for a renovation that will outfit its movie theaters with king-size recliners.

Facing growing competition, movie theaters across the country have been adding new amenities to make the theater experience more novel and appealing. In 2013, the AMC Lake in the Hills 12 movie theater got a makeover that added oversized luxury recliners and a bar. The upgrades were part of a renovation project that included improvements to the theater's lobby, concessions, auditoriums and restrooms.

All of the 16 auditoriums in the 70,000-square-foot Regal Crystal Lake Showplace Stadium 16 are planned for upgrades, according to Crystal Lake permit documents.

In addition to recliners, each theater will get other upgrades including new paint, acoustic treatments and carpeting, according to a news release from the city.

“The city is elated with Regal’s decision to upgrade,” said James Richter II, Crystal Lake's planning and economic development manager, in an email statement. “This will provide customers with an enhanced movie experience and greater comfort, and we hope the investment will attract more viewers.”

The company's website describes the recliners as "luxurious" seats that "are cozy, comfortable and spacious, adjustable to multiple positions and include padded footrests."

A manager at Regal Crystal Lake Showplace Stadium declined to comment on the project, citing company policy.

Rachel Lueras, a marketing manager for Knoxville, Tennessee-based Regal Entertainment Group, said further details about the project weren't immediately available, but confirmed work had started on the renovations. She said additional information would be made available in the future.

It appears preparations are already underway for the renovation project at Regal Crystal Lake Showplace Stadium 16, but no schedule for the project was immediately available Tuesday.