PowerPlay is getting ready to launch at Southcentre Mall in Calgary on December 9.
This dynamic new venue celebrates the future of entertainment with an energetic blend of cutting-edge attractions, high-tech experiences, and chef-driven dining to offer an unparalleled destination for fun and connection. With a seating capacity exceeding 1,000 guests, PowerPlay will act as the perfect setting for celebrations, corporate events, or casual outings.
“We’re reinventing what entertainment means for our guests,” said Moe Farhat, Managing Partner, PowerPlay. “Every element of PowerPlay has been curated with innovation in mind. From cutting-edge games to premium dining and one-of-a-kind cinema experiences, we’ve created a place where people can come to celebrate, connect, and make memories that last.”
“PowerPlay is a thrilling addition to Southcentre’s growing entertainment and dining options,” said Abigail Alfonso, General Manager, Southcentre Mall. “This venue enhances our position as a community hub, offering Calgarians of all ages a vibrant space to connect, relax, and enjoy unforgettable experiences.”
PowerPlay is located on the third level of the mall where Sears used to be and next to Decathlon.
Farhat said PowerPlay is designed to bring guests together for a truly immersive experience. From intimate gatherings to large-scale events, PowerPlay will offer a seamless blend of fun, food, and unforgettable moments. Experiential offerings will include interactive games and sports simulators, as well as a next-generation cinematic experience.
What to Expect at PowerPlay
- Cinematic Excellence Like Never Before: PowerPlay’s micro cinemas redefine moviegoing. Each theater is equipped with Barco Series 4 laser projectors, JBL premium sound systems, and ultra-comfortable seating with in-seat dining service. Guests can even skip the lines with self-serve concessions powered by innovative “Just Walk Out” technology.
- Immersive Gaming Experiences: Step into the action with attractions like Immersive Gamebox, where players enjoy 360-degree gameplay without the need for VR headsets
- Strikezon and Golfzon Simulators: Offering real-time pitching and high-speed HD simulation for baseball players of all skill levels, in addition to advanced golf simulators that recreate iconic courses in stunning detail for an immersive golfing adventure.
- QubicaAMF HyperBowling: An electrifying fusion of bowling and gaming across 16 lanes will allows players to add strategic challenges and more fun to every frame. Above it all, a 100-foot LED wall will stream live sports, music videos, and vibrant visuals.
- Worldclass Arcade: This wonderland of fun will feature the latest games alongside timeless classics for nonstop excitement.
- Dining Designed to Impress: At PowerPlay, food is an integral part of the experience. Enjoy full-service dining throughout the venue, including gourmet bites at the cinemas and an elevated coffee bar. Whether you’re grabbing snacks or settling in for a full meal, PowerPlay’s culinary offerings are as innovative as its attractions.
In 2025, PowerPlay will continue to expand with the launch of exciting new features, including a hidden speakeasy, a rooftop patio, a laser tag arena, and a Starbucks, further solidifying its position as Calgary’s go-to destination for entertainment.
The company said the speakeasy will offer a sophisticated and intimate retreat from the excitement of the main attractions, delivering craft cocktails, curated music, and a refined atmosphere. PowerPlay’s rooftop patio will allow guests to soak up the sun in a dynamic dining and socializing space with exceptional food and refreshing drinks.
Farhat’s background is in finance and accounting. He was an investment advisor. His extended family is in the business of hospitality.
About four years ago he attended the Amusement Expo International in Orlando, Florida. He was fortunate to go out for dinner with a group of individuals he looks up to now. All innovators in the space. After chatting with them, he realized there was an opportunity to take what they’re doing and see if more technology could be used to bring the movie industry forward.
The Southcentre location is the first one for PowerPlay.
“If we are able to do this and be successful, we would just replicate it and take it across the country,” said Farhat.
Having a presence in a major shopping centre is significant, he added. Parking for one is a big bonus for a venue like PowerPlay that is 80,000 square feet. Accessibility is also a huge benefit.
“Prior to coming here Earl’s was just opening up. We were looking at the space. Oxford has been a great partner from the beginning. The more I learned in terms of the demographics of people coming here, the location, the people, it just kind of became more and more apparent that this was the perfect spot for PowerPlay,” added Farhat.
“The look and feel of the space is actually women. Women 25 to 70. The lights, the colours, everything is rooted for them primarily and for the entertainment side it’s all ages. We’ve got obviously a lot of TVs, we’ve got the games, we’ve got golf, we’ve got three bars, four, five if you include the speakeasy and the rooftop patio that are coming in the spring. But the look and space has a level of elegance that that’s the demographic I’m hoping will appreciate it and the rest will enjoy the space.
“We have an emphasis on the cinemas, the seats, the lights, the projectors, the screen. We’re really excited to bring this to market and hope that the community will appreciate it.”
There are 10 cinemas with bar and food service to customers’ seats.
Southcentre Mall is celebrating 50 years in business and features more than 160 stores and services, including Calgary exclusives like Crate & Barrel and Restoration Hardware. It is part of the Oxford Properties Group.
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- Next-Gen ‘PowerPlay’ entertainment centre coming to Southcentre Mall
- Southcentre Mall Marks 50th Anniversary with Community Initiatives in Calgary [Interview]
