Flagship Premium Cinemas is almost ready for its closeup.
The neighborhood theater, known by its local sobriquet “Eric 7,” tucked into Montgomeryville’s sprawling Water Tower Square is getting ready to raise the curtain on its next act by the end of the week.
Flagship Premium Cinemas and The Goldenberg Group will assume operations at the theater, according to a recent news release. The cinema announced on Facebook Tuesday that it would close on Wednesday and Thursday to facilitate the transition to the new brand.
According to a Facebook post, Flagship Premium Cinemas claimed that pricing will stay the same, for now. All staff are also being kept on, as well as new employees coming on board.
Water Tower Cinema gift cards will be honored at the new cinema, as the same software is being used, so there are no issues with redemption. Pre-purchased tickets are also valid.
“Flagship has mastered the art of phasing renovations to provide minimal disturbance to your movie going experience There are no planned closures,” stated the post. “Flagship Premium Cinemas cares about community partnerships and looks forward to keeping and growing such connections. They will still offer great events and programs such as classic films, sensory friendly showtimes, holiday specials et cetera.”
The acquisition of Water Tower Cinema is the 19th location under the Baltimore-based Flagship Premium Cinemas banner. The company’s mission involves affordable, premium moviegoing experiences, according to the release.
According to the report, Flagship intends to retain the current staff.
The co-operators plan are rolling out $1.5 million in renovations in phases (what is this? The MCU?), with upgrades including luxury, heated recliners, modernized concessions, and a new interior design to “blend small-town comfort with modern style.”
According to its website, the cinemas offer hot foods, self-serve popcorn and sodas, internet ticketing, premium popcorn pail subscriptions, a Film Fanatic Club, birthday parties, gift cards, and TheaterEars app capabilities.
“We’re thrilled to join the Lansdale community and honored to carry forward the legacy of Water Tower Cinema,” said Paul Wenger, president of Flagship Premium Cinemas, in the release. “Our guests can expect the same welcoming atmosphere, now with premium upgrades that make every visit even more special.”
The change in operators comes under the ownership of The Goldenberg Group, which took over the property in 2019 and shepherded its survival through the pandemic.
“The Goldenberg Group would like to thank the staff, community, schools, local police, fire department, families, and movie aficionados for their support,” said David Mercuris, the group’s senior vice president, in the release. “We look forward to working with the Flagship team and to continue to build on our ‘Community Theater’ experience in our role as partner and owner of Water Tower Square.”
That broader retail hub is a story of its own. Water Tower Square spans 269,018 square feet along the busy Route 202/309 corridor, drawing shoppers and diners from across Montgomery and Bucks counties.
The center’s tenant mix includes national anchors like Home Depot, Bob’s Discount Furniture, Sprouts Farmers Market, World Market, Planet Fitness, and Miller’s Ale House.
Water Tower Cinema accounts for 33,761 square feet — a substantial footprint that underscores its role as an anchor attraction in its own right.
Numbers bolster the story. Within five miles of the complex live more than 143,000 residents, alongside a daytime workforce exceeding 116,000 employees.
The average household income in that radius tops $136,000, a demographic profile that developers say ensures strong support for retail and entertainment, according to The Goldenberg Group.
In other words, the market is primed for a premium but accessible cinematic experience.
Flagship enters Montgomeryville with experience in communities across Maine, New York, Maryland, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Its nearby locations include Pottstown, Palmyra, and
The company is honoring existing Water Tower Cinema gift cards and advance ticket sales.
Since 1987, The Goldenberg Group, led by Ken Goldenberg, has been a leading real estate developer in Greater Philadelphia, recognized for transformative projects ranging from landmark retail destinations to luxury residential communities and urban student housing, according to the release.
Connect with management at [email protected] for any questions about events and partnerships.
Going on this week at Flagship Premium Cinemas
Here are some events coming up over the next week:
Oct. 4: Trunk or Treat
Oct. 3 - Oct. 5: Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl
Oct. 5, 1 p.m.: Gabby's Dollhouse Sensory Friendly Showing
Oct. 7: Super Tuesday Flagship Discount Day ($6 tickets, $9 popcorn and drink)
Oct. 8: Wayback Wednesday ($6 tickets, $9 popcorn and drink)
