Kyiv's 'Zhovten' cinema, located on Podil at 26 Konstantynska Street, has published a detailed protocol for operations during air alerts on Facebook. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing a post by the venue's press office. The decision to clearly separate scenarios for audiences and staff is a response to the regular air alerts in the capital and is intended to remove uncertainty for those planning to attend a screening.
'Yellow' alert: the screening continues, the choice is up to the viewer
According to the published protocol, when an air alert with a 'yellow' threat level is declared in Kyiv, the 'Zhovten' cinema will continue its screenings. At the same time, each viewer is given the right to decide for themselves whether to stay for the screening or leave the hall. Those who choose the latter option are advised by the press office to contact the administrator: the venue will provide a promo code that allows the film to be watched later. Thus, the viewer does not lose the money paid for the ticket, even if they interrupt the viewing.
'Red' alert: suspension and possible full cancellation of the screening
The situation changes fundamentally when an air alert with a 'red' danger level is declared. In this case, the cinema ceases operations. If the 'red' level lasts for more than 20 minutes, the screening will be fully cancelled. Viewers planning to go to the cinema should bear in mind that in the event of the most serious threats, the screening may not take place at all, and should factor this possibility into their schedule in advance.
Temporary changes to operating hours
In addition to the rules for behaviour during alerts, the 'Zhovten' press office announced a temporary change to the cinema's operating hours in connection with the current security situation. 'Thank you for your understanding! Take care of yourselves, and see you at 'Zhovten'', the venue added. The specific details of the new schedule were presented in an infographic published on the cinema's official Facebook page.
How to get to the cinema during an alert
The press office also clarified the logistics for viewers. The metro station closest to 'Zhovten' is 'Kontaktna Square'. During a 'yellow' alert in Kyiv, the Syretsko-Pecherska ('green') metro line is operational. Residents of the left bank are advised to transfer from 'Palats Sportu' station to 'Ukrainskykh Heroyiv' station and ride to 'Kontaktna Square'. In addition, the right bank can be reached by bus 1M, which runs from 'Lesna' metro station to 'Palats Sportu' station. These routes allow viewers to plan their trip even under conditions of limited public transport operation.
Context: fire and building restoration
It is worth noting that the 'Zhovten' cinema previously survived a serious incident — the building was set on fire. According to kp.ua, the restoration of the cinema was planned to be completed by mid-autumn. The publication of new rules for operations during alerts indicates that the venue has returned to operational activity and is adapting it to the security conditions in effect in Kyiv. Previously, the capital's theatres also announced the continuation of performances during 'yellow' alerts, while separate changes to public transport were introduced for drivers and passengers in the city.
