Here is the email I wrote to Sundance which sums up my recent experience. I want this place to thrive but unless they do some renewal soon I think they will continue to decline and lose patrons.
I have been going to Sundance Cinema at Hilldale in Madison since it opened. This has always been a favorite location for my family and I to watch select movies. I remember the festive atmosphere before a movie started, the ability to purchase a wide range of food and drinks and the premium atmosphere. Also the clientele that theater draws is a nice group of people from the Madison area.
Unfortunately I have noticed a degradation in the past year or so that has concerned me to the point I have decided to write an email. Last night my daughter and I went to see Jeff Bridges in Hell or High Water and the seats we had reserved had worn-through upholstery and the inside foam was bulging out. This gave us an uncomfortable feeling but mostly I was concerned for the future of this venue. How can they continue to attract a premium audience if the condition of the theater is subpar? Especially considering that Marcus has opened up a new theater in Sun Prairie with leather recliner seating and has also added similar seating at Point Cinemas.
I'm hoping that the business model at Sundance has been successful and there are plans to refurbish the interior of this premium venue. Otherwise I'm thinking this place will slowly decay, lose business and finally close it's doors. That would be a sad loss for Madison.
I've attached 2 pictures for your review that were taken last night. I will also mention that the floor which was apparently painted black has now completely worn away, the guard railing in the theater is in dire need of repainting and the sofas in the lobby area are worn and is desperate need of replacement.
I hope you find my feedback helpful and I would greatly appreciate a reply.