Debrecen4U September 9, 2026

Mihály Kertész Auditorium Renovated at Apolló Cinema

After nearly 30 years, the main auditorium of Apolló Cinema, the Mihály Kertész Auditorium, has undergone a comprehensive renovation. Visitors were able to return to the refurbished auditorium on 8 September 2026. At the ceremony, Mayor László Papp and Fejér Tamás, head of the cinema, also welcomed the guests.

Mayor László Papp recalled that the renovation of the main auditorium had been preceded by a lengthy preparation process, and that this summer, while ensuring the cinema remained operational and sustainable, they were able to begin the works. “I am proud that we were able to carry out this renovation even during this challenging period. Not least because Apolló Cinema is one of the great witnesses to Debrecen’s 20th century, and in particular to the development of moving pictures,” the Mayor said.

As he noted, the cinema opened its doors in 1912 and, despite a few interruptions, has operated continuously and been an integral part of the city’s cultural life. It remained open even during the Second World War, albeit with reduced operations, continuing to serve citizens who went to the cinema. “Apolló Cinema is a much-loved building in Debrecen. It has a soul, and I hope that it is associated with many beautiful memories for many people,” he remarked.

The main auditorium had been operating in its current form since 1997, so after almost 30 years, the time had come for a comprehensive renewal. The last screening in its former configuration took place on 26 July, after which demolition and renovation works began. Among other things, the auditorium received new seats and a new screen, while its surroundings were also modernised.

As part of the nearly HUF 50 million modernisation project, Apolló Cinema’s digital projection system was upgraded. A new digital cinema server, network storage and network equipment were procured and installed. The development also included the necessary cabling works, configuration of the equipment, integration into the existing projection system and commissioning of the system. In addition, the air-conditioning unit in the projection room was replaced and a new popcorn machine was installed.

At the handover ceremony, the Municipality of the City of Debrecen expressed its thanks to János Kószó, Managing Director of Cinema Szeged Kft., for his work on behalf of the main auditorium of Apolló Cinema in Debrecen. The Municipality also awarded the Debrecen Cívis Certificate of Honour to Ferenc Sándor, a projectionist who worked at Apolló Cinema as a cinema projectionist for more than 30 years.

The first screening following the renovation was particularly significant: Ferenc Sándor operated the screening of Terminator 2: Judgment Day for the final time before his retirement.

Source and photo credit: debrecen.hu