Dylan Skolnick returns to lead Huntington's Cinema Arts Centre

Dylan Skolnick is back in charge of the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington. The organization and Skolnick announced a resolution on Nov. 6 that places him back in his role following a mediation process. The agreement ends a several-month dispute that began when the center fired Skolnick in September over allegations of serious misconduct.

Skolnick is the son of the theater's founder and longtime co-director. His departure triggered a wave of community response. Local residents organized protests and launched a boycott. Many supporters withheld donations and paused their membership renewals during the conflict.

The press release outlines a structural realignment for the coming months. A new co-director will join Skolnick to share leadership duties. The board of directors will add several new members, including individuals with specific experience in the film industry. Both the co-directors and the board will undergo additional training. This training focuses on effective governance, leadership, accountability, and workplace culture.

The joint statement from the center and Skolnick describes the moment as the start of a new day. They noted that the past few months were challenging but demonstrated how deeply the community cares for the institution. The outpouring of support pushed all parties to work together toward this resolution.

The statement emphasized a shared commitment to the center's mission. It invited longtime members, former supporters, and new visitors to join the organization as it moves forward. The release described the Cinema Arts Centre as a community built by the people who believe in it.

The changes aim to strengthen the organization and broaden its leadership. The board intends to position the cinema for long-term success. The new structure includes a dual leadership model rather than a single director. This shift marks a departure from the previous governance setup.

The center remains a cultural institution in Huntington. It serves thousands of members, filmmakers, artists, and residents. The return of Skolnick and the addition of new board members signal a return to normal operations after the period of uncertainty.