After nearly 30 years, the main auditorium of Debrecen’s Apollo Cinema, the Mihály Kertész Hall, has undergone a complete renovation. Visitors were able to return to the refurbished auditorium on September 8, 2026. At the reopening ceremony, Mayor László Papp and Tamás Fejér, head of the cinema, also welcomed guests.
Mayor László Papp recalled that the renovation of the main auditorium had been preceded by a lengthy preparation process, while the actual work could begin this summer while ensuring the cinema remained operational and sustainable. “I am proud that we were able to carry out this renovation even during this difficult period. This is especially important because Apollo Cinema is one of the great witnesses to Debrecen’s 20th century history, and in particular to the development of motion pictures,” the mayor said.
He noted that the cinema opened its doors in 1912 and, despite shorter interruptions, has operated continuously and remained an important part of the city’s cultural life. It continued operating even during World War II, albeit on a reduced basis, serving the citizens of Debrecen who went to the cinema. “Apollo Cinema is a very dear building to Debrecen. It has a soul, and I hope that many people have very fond memories associated with it,” he added.
The main auditorium had been operating in its previous form since 1997, meaning that after nearly 30 years, the time had come for a complete renewal. The last screening in the old auditorium took place on July 26, after which demolition and renovation work began. As part of the project, the hall received new seats and a new screen, while its surrounding facilities were also modernized.
The modernization cost nearly HUF 50 million and included an upgrade of Apollo Cinema’s digital projection system. A new digital cinema server, network storage system and network equipment were purchased and installed. The development also included the necessary cabling, equipment configuration, integration into the existing projection system and commissioning. In addition, the air-conditioning system in the projection room was replaced and a new popcorn machine was installed.
At the reopening ceremony, the Municipality of the City of Debrecen expressed its appreciation to János Kószó, managing director of Cinema Szeged Kft., for his work on the main auditorium of Apollo Cinema in Debrecen. The city also awarded its Cívis Honorary Diploma to Ferenc Sándor, a projectionist who spent more than 30 years working at Apollo Cinema.
The first screening following the renovation was particularly significant: Ferenc Sándor, the cinema projectionist, started Terminator 2: Judgment Day for the final time before his retirement.
(debrecen.hu)
Photo: debrecen.hu
