Carbon County’s only indoor movie theater announced Tuesday that it will not be reopening after the COVID-19 shutdown.

On Facebook, Mahoning Valley Cinema posted, “To all of our MVC patrons. It is with great sadness that we announce that Mahoning Valley Cinema will not be reopening after the COVID-19 shutdown, whenever that may occur. We are closed permanently effective immediately.”

The cinema concluded, “We are but one of the small-business casualties resulting from the shutdown. We wish to thank all of our patrons for their continued loyalty over the years. We wish everyone the best and good health going forward.”

Bruce Copio, manager, did not comment on the announcement. The theater has been operating at Carbon Plaza for more than 20 years.

The post drew many comments from people who appreciated not having to drive to Allentown to see movies.

Donna DeVillers said, “I’m so sorry that this has happened … we have come to depend on this close-by theater. Prayers for all involved.”

Colette Scherer posted, “Good-bye MV Cinema you gave me the best memories to cherish the most, I will miss this theater more than ever. Thank you.”

Robert McLaughlin added, “What a shame for the area. Mahoning Cinema was a great place.”

According to national reports, movie theaters have been struggling in the age of streaming, with services provided directly to homes.

Time magazine on March 18 predicted a significant drop in ticket sales this year. “Hollywood was already bracing for a bad box office year before the novel coronavirus hit. Netflix and other streaming services have slowly begun to supplant the moviegoing experience for millions of people.”

“This was going to be the worst year in movie theater history before the coronavirus hit,” Richard Greenfield, a media analyst at LightShed partners, was quoted as saying. “This is like pouring lighter fluid on the fire.”

According to Baskin Wealth Management, total U.S. theater attendance peaked in 2002 (a year with “Spider-Man,” “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” and “The Lord of the Rings”), and has been falling ever since. Over the past 20 years, ticket prices have risen by about inflation plus 1% annually.

The Angela Triplex Theatre in Coaldale has not projected an opening date. The theater posted on Facebook March 15 that the goal was to reopen by March 27. An update has not been given, though the theater is actively posting.

“It is our goal to keep our patrons safe. We wish everyone continued good health during this outbreak,” the theater said.

Mahoning Drive-In has also delayed its opening. The target was this weekend, but the drive-in posted this week, “The pandemic struck our country toward the end of our off-season, and we’ve been closely monitoring the situation as we approach our normally scheduled opening date. The safety and health of our customers and crew is our absolute top priority.”

While some drive-ins and outdoor venues have hosted “social distancing” activities during the quarantine, management said, “We have taken the stance that if it’s not safe to open for our season, it’s not safe to open for any other reason. We stand by the motion to stay home and stay safe, because that helps us open safely sooner!”

The theater promised a plan to “ensure a safe moviegoing experience when it comes time to roll those reels! We will continue to update everyone as this all unfolds.”

Becky’s Drive In has posted events for this season, including its 74th anniversary celebration. The drive-in said it has mailed out 300 passes for children to use for free admittance during the season.

Chris Reber contributed to this report.