Local Voices
Meadowview Theatre Names New General Manager
Classic Cinemas has announced that Hailey Boatman is the new general manager of the Meadowview Theatre in Kankakee. Making the announcement was Chris Johnson, vice president of Classic Cinemas who said, “It’s satisfying to watch a staff member grow within our company and ultimately join our management team.”
Boatman recalls joining Classic Cinemas when she was just 19 years old. “It was my hobby to watch movies,” she explained. “I didn’t expect the promotion, but I’m looking forward to the challenges that accompany my new position. I’m thrilled that they promoted to me to general manager.”
Boatman was assistant manager at the Meadowview Theatre prior to her promotion, and served in the same capacity for two years at the Paramount Theatre in Kankakee where she began her career with Classic Cinemas.
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“Classic Cinemas really likes to promote within the company,” Boatman said. “I worked in concessions, as an usher and booth technician before becoming an assistant manager. I’m really happy to be with the company.”
Boatman said she looks forward to the myriad challenges that accompany being a general manager — none of which are more important that keeping the customers happy. “Seeing excited customers walk out of the theatre is satisfying,” said Boatman, who knows many patrons by name. “All of our customers are always happy.”
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Boatman, 23, has a wide variety of interests and hobbies to keep her busy. She practices yoga, is a voracious reader and enjoys the sciences, including physics, neurology and psychiatry. “I study the human brain. I like studying what the neocortex does,” she said. “It helps me to relate to people.”
“I always want to make myself better,” she added. “I don’t remember what it feels like to be bored!”