Historic KiMo Theatre Brings the Upside Down to ABQ
May 26, 2022
ALBUQUERQUE – In anticipation of the May 27 release of Netflix’s ‘Stranger Things: Season 4’, Netflix, the NM Film Office, and the Albuquerque Film Office are hosting a special screening event at Albuquerque’s KiMo Theater on May 26. This screening is both a thank you for cast, crew, and other special guests, and a celebration of the first season of the show to be filmed in Albuquerque.
There will be an additional free screening for the community hosted in partnership with the Department of Arts & Culture at the KiMo on June 4 at 5:30 p.m. Although the world premiere of the latest season of Stranger Things is being released on the streaming service on May 27, the public screening will give guests an opportunity to see the popular series on the KiMo’s big screen and new 4K laser projector. The nearly 100-year-old historic KiMo Theatre recently reopened for public events after two years of closure due to the pandemic. The closure gave staff the resources and opportunity to complete a number of major upgrades and renovations, including the addition of new technology.
“We have great community pride in knowing that we are home to the production of one of Netflix’s most watched series of all time,” said Cyndy McCrossen, Albuquerque Film Office liaison. “We are excited to see local talent and businesses highlighted in the new season and we look forward to continued partnership with Netflix and their future productions.”
“Albuquerque is the new home for film, and Netflix’s expansion and investment in our community is proof of that,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “We look forward to the continued growth of our creative economy and to the opportunities to come for locals. A lot of Burqueños played a role in bringing this season to life, and we can’t wait to see what they’ve created.”
The production of this season at the height of the pandemic was no small feat as Season 4 of Stranger Things hosted some of the largest background actor scenes in the country at the time. This round of filming employed 325 New Mexico crew members, 70 New Mexico principal cast members, and 700 New Mexico background actors and extras. Recognizable local locations like Roller King and Eldorado High School allowed crews access to their locations and supported filming during this season.
“The Netflix production of ‘Stranger Things’ demonstrates again that New Mexico’s film community can sustain high-quality productions over several seasons,” said N.M. Economic Development Department Cabinet Secretary Alicia J. Keyes. “Hundreds of background actors and small businesses benefitted financially from the filming of ‘Stranger Things’ and we are pleased they can come together to celebrate this iconic series.”
“Netflix, one of our state film partners, brought this world-renowned series to New Mexico and employed over 300 New Mexico crew members, over 700 New Mexico background actors, while also supporting hundreds of New Mexico businesses. This series, like so many productions, has made a positive impact on our local economy while also showcasing New Mexico to a global audience as a place where great TV is made,” said New Mexico Film Office Director Amber Dodson.
Tickets for the June 4 showing are free and will be available at abqtickets.com on a first come, first serve basis. Please be advised that seating is not reserved and will be determined in order of arrival. Snacks from Get Hooked and beverages from Loaded Lemon will be available for purchase throughout the evening.