Dylan Skolnick Returning To Huntington's Cinema Arts Centre After Firing

HUNTINGTON, NY — Dylan Skolnick is returning as director of the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington, the nonprofit theater announced Friday, more than two months after his controversial firing sparked backlash from members of the community and the film industry.

The Cinema Arts Centre announced Nov. 6 that Skolnick and its board of directors reached an agreement following a series of meetings facilitated by an independent mediator.

"The Cinema Arts Centre is pleased to announce that Dylan Skolnick is returning as Director of the Cinema Arts Centre," the organization stated on Facebook.

Skolnick, whose parents, Vic Skolnick and Charlotte Sky, founded the theater in 1973, was fired Sept. 1 after the board cited what it believed was "serious misconduct."

In a Sept. 2 statement, the board defended its decision, saying it had discovered and communicated the alleged misconduct to Skolnick.

"This was a difficult decision given the family's history, but please keep in mind that major Board decisions like this are not made hastily," the board stated at the time.

The dismissal sparked criticism from longtime patrons, supporters and members of the film community, with some calling for Skolnick's reinstatement and others questioning the board's leadership.

On Friday, the organization said it had reached an agreement with Skolnick to move forward.

"Following an outpouring of support for Dylan and concern for the Cinema's future from members of our community and the wider film world, the Board of Directors and Dylan agreed to sit down for a series of meetings facilitated by an independent mediator," the organization stated. "Those discussions have resulted in an agreement to move forward together, and we are pleased to welcome Dylan back to the Cinema."

The organization said its priorities now include repairing relationships, listening to members and audiences, addressing financial challenges and restoring trust in the theater's leadership.

"We recognize the impact this period of uncertainty has had on our members, patrons, staff, and supporters, and we sincerely apologize to everyone who has been affected," the statement read.

As part of that effort, the Cinema Arts Centre will undergo a leadership realignment in the coming months.

A new co-director will join Skolnick in leading the organization, while the board will welcome several new members with backgrounds and experience in the film industry, according to the announcement.

Both the co-directors and board members will also undergo additional training focused on governance, leadership, accountability and fostering a positive workplace culture.

"These changes are intended to strengthen the organization, broaden its leadership, and position the Cinema for long-term success," the organization stated.

The announcement did not specify when Skolnick would officially resume his duties, who would serve alongside him as co-director or whether the board had withdrawn its previous allegations.

"The Cinema Arts Centre has always been about more than the movies," Centre said in a statement. "It is a community built by the people who believe in it, and we look forward to moving ahead together."