B&B Theatres announced Thursday preliminary work will soon begin on a comprehensive remodel of its theater at Vicksburg Mall, 3505 Pemberton Square Blvd., including a bar, reclining seats and a self-serving drink station.

Construction will be begin this spring with completion anticipated in time for all of the summer blockbusters. B&B Theatres General Manager Kywana Gibbs said the theater will remain open throughout most of the renovations.

“Some of the staff will help with the renovations, and we won’t be closed the whole time,” she said. “Maybe one or two weeks, but not through the whole six- to eight-week process.”

Gibbs said the traditional concession area will give way to a completely new marquee bar for guests 21 and over, offering them the chance to enjoy a beer or cocktail before, during, or after the movie.

“This could be the new hangout spot for the older crowd,” she said. “Security is going to be beefed up as well because we’re not going to let anyone under 21 into the bar. I’m looking forward to the whole atmosphere change.”

Multiple improvements are scheduled to begin soon, including full-scale seat replacements.

“Aging static seats will be removed to make way for luxury electric, leather reclining theater chairs,” according to a press release. “A new point-of-sale software was recently installed, the implementation of which has enabled reserved seating in all six auditoriums. Additionally, the software allows guests to participate in the B&B Theatres Backstage Pass Loyalty Program, a rewards system through which repeat guests can earn discounts on tickets, concessions, and other great promotions.”

Other plans include a comprehensive overhaul of the concession stand and signage, replacing outdated fixtures and realigning the lobby with the B&B brand. An updated entrance, new carpets, and restroom improvements will complete the remodeling effort.

“This theater has needed an upgrade for a while, so the fact B&B has come in and committed to it, I’m glad they’re sticking to their word,” Gibbs said. “Everyone is excited about it.”

Self-serve soda fountains will be installed, allowing customers to fill their own drinks, mix flavors and enjoy free refills on all drink sizes.

Gibbs said she expects business to increase exponentially due to the remodel and the recent news their competitor in Clinton would be closing.

“The expected close date for that is June, which is right up our alley,” she said. “This renovation is supposed to be completed by summer. We have people come from a lot of neighboring cities anyway because the variety of movies we show now is so much different than what the previous theater was doing.”

Gibbs said she hopes the people of Vicksburg will continue to support their local theater.

“With the new management and new ownership, major changes have already happened,” she said. “We’ve gotten a lot of compliments. I pride myself on great customer service.”

For more information about B&B Theatres, visit bbtheatres.com or bbtheatres.com/facebook. The Facebook page will be updated so customers can keep track of the remodel progress.