Decoder with Nilay Patel Alamo Drafthouse CEO Shelli Taylor on going back to the movies
Dec 1, 2020
Shelli Taylor, CEO of Alamo Drafthouse, shares her journey of leading the theater chain through the pandemic. She discusses the creative measures needed to navigate high operational costs and the importance of safety in reopening theaters. Taylor emphasizes the unique experiences Alamo offers, focusing on design and local flavor to attract audiences in a streaming-dominated world. She also considers the future of cinema, including innovations like drive-ins and private rentals, showcasing how they can thrive while preserving personal connections with moviegoers.
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Shelli Taylor's Chaotic Start
- Shelli Taylor started as Alamo Drafthouse's CEO on April 30th, 2020, amidst the pandemic.
- She was initially hired for growth but had to manage the crisis of 41 theater closures.
Crippled by Inconsistent Governance
- Shelli emphasizes the lack of a coordinated government approach to the pandemic as crippling.
- Alamo prioritizes safety by implementing various measures from online ordering to mask enforcement.
Equitable Regulations
- Shelli advocates for equitable business regulations during the pandemic.
- She questions inconsistencies like allowing restaurants to serve food while theaters cannot.