AUSTIN, Texas (October 23, 2023) - EVO Entertainment Group announces it will begin operating as Elevate Entertainment Group (EEG) as well as its acquisition of Austin-based Violet Crown Cinemas. This rebranding strategy aligns with EEG’s thoughtful growth plans and allows each brand under the umbrella organization to retain its unique identity. Currently, EEG operates 15 cinema entertainment centers across the United States, with an additional four in the pipeline.

The acquisition of Violet Crown Cinemas, a renowned group of arthouse theaters, bars, and cafes, contributes to EEG’s mission of being at the forefront of experiential entertainment, setting the industry standard through a people-centric approach, relentless innovation, and thoughtful growth. This strategic move will include four iconic Violet Crown venues in Austin, TX; Dallas, TX; Charlottesville, VA; and Santa Fe, NM, adding a total of 30 screens to the group’s 172 already in operation. Violet Crown Cinemas will continue to operate under the Violet Crown name and brand, and will diversify EEG’s offerings with its arthouse focus. The acquisition is planned to close by December 2023. Bill Banowsky, the visionary founder and CEO of Violet Crown Cinemas, reflected on this new chapter, stating, “Our journey with Violet Crown has been extraordinary. We've cultivated a unique moviegoing experience that caters to film lovers, and that remains unchanged. I am confident that this acquisition will continue to bring the best film experience to the community, and am grateful that we found a team with the resources, passion, and vision to take Violet Crown to the next level.”

Banowsky has a long history in the film industry, and will remain a part of Violet Crown Cinemas as an equity partner. Banowsky started his cinema journey in 2001 when he founded Magnolia Pictures, a film exhibition and distribution company, which he later sold in 2003. He went on to serve as the CEO of Landmark Theatres, from 2003 through 2007. Banowsky then founded Carolina Cinemas in 2008 and Violet Crown Cinemas in 2010.

Mitch Roberts, founder and CEO of EEG, has a similar legacy in the industry as a fourth-generation cinema operator. He has grown the company since 2014 to the fastest growing cinema entertainment center organization in the country. Roberts shared his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating, “Today’s news marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of our long-term vision for the future of cinema and entertainment. As an Austin local, Violet Crown is a brand close to my heart and I am honored to be trusted with the task of preserving and expanding their legacy.”

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About Elevate Entertainment Group
Austin-based Elevate Entertainment Group creates boundary-pushing entertainment destinations that connect people through the power of shared experiences. As an Inc. 5,000 Fastest Private Growing Company and the nation’s leading and largest operator of cinema entertainment centers, the Elevate Entertainment Group portfolio of brands includes EVO Cinemas, EVO Entertainment, Elevate Rewards, ShowBiz Cinemas, Times Square Grand Slam, and Violet Crown Cinemas. The organization offers a broad slate of activities including movies, bowling, games, and attractions like climbing walls, virtual reality, ropes courses, and bumper cars. Guests can enjoy refined food and beverages from their scratch kitchens and bars while immersing themselves in a variety of entertainment options for everyday fun. For more information, visit elevategroup.com.

About Violet Crown Cinemas
Violet Crown opened its first location in Austin, TX, in 2011 with a focus on art films and hospitality. The iconic brand is devoted to independent, documentary, and foreign films, offering reserved seating, made-to-order food, crafted beer, wine, and cocktails, and also provides spaces for public entertainment. The company partners with local organizations and nonprofits to enhance opportunities for communities within their locations. Violet Crown is committed to celebrating and preserving the magic of cinema. For more information, visit violetcrown.com.