This fancy movie theater opens today on the east side

In a galaxy far, far away, there lies a luxury movie theater.

Except it’s not far away. Actually, it’s pretty close.

After years of waiting, Galaxy Theatres Luxury+ is hosting its grand opening at 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 1.

“I’ve spent time in Tucson and I like the area,” says CEO Frank Rimkus. “Tucson seems to be a real opportunity to grow. The city has a good attitude.”

And here’s some more good news for you east-siders: Galaxy Theatres will sit in the former Bashas’ grocery store at 100 S. Houghton Road near Broadway, which makes it the farthest east theater in the Old Pueblo.

Previously, that spot was held by Century Gateway 12 on North Kolb Road, and Park Place Mall for newer movies — both quite the trek for some east-siders.

Rimkus says he chose the location because of the convenience to east-side residents and because the area is “under-served.”

“There seems to be a lot of good things going on in the eastern part of the city,” Rimkus says. “We want to help build a community as it continues to grow.”

Galaxy Theatres is a 20-year-old west-coast chain that shows the latest Hollywood films and offers wall-to-wall premium movie screens, leather recliners, and other “luxury” features, Rimkus says.

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“We’re a premium experience at the regular price,” he says.

The concession stands include a long list of foods: pizza, chicken wings, and other items you might not find at your average theater. Beer and wine are also available.

Rimkus says Galaxy Theatres is known for their popcorn — so you might want to think about picking up a bucket.

And like most theaters, movie-goers can digitally purchase tickets and reserve seats ahead of time.

The theater will also offer meeting space and the company plans to host educational and charity events to get involved with the Tucson community.

Beyond the theater’s capabilities, Rimkus says the company prides itself in its hospitality.

“We don’t call it customer service; we don’t have customers. We have guests,” Rimkus says. “At the end of the day, our sole business is to focus on how to make people happy.”

Galaxy Theatres expects to bring more than 70 new jobs to Tucson. This is the chain’s first location in Arizona.