Movie Notes

Ryan Reynolds declares his love for the Rio Theatre with a donation

by Charlie Smith on March 12th, 2018 at 8:07 AM
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      Hometown actor Ryan Reynolds has joined a growing army trying to save a cherished East Vancouver landmark.

      The star of such blockbusters as Deadpool and The Proposal has declared that he loves the Rio Theatre and that he's "just donated" to a fundraising effort.

      The Indiegogo website shows that Rio Theatre CEO Corinne Lea has raised $135,586 (as of this writing) toward a "flexible goal" of $1 million.

      Her group has submitted an offer for the property that's been accepted. But $3 million must be raised for a down payment by April 2, with $1.5 million coming from private investors.

      The Rio Theatre is working with a nonprofit B.C.-based group, the Vancouver Art House Society, which was formed to help buy the property with funds donated from the community.

      Today, the Rio Theatre announced that the Hollywood Arts Foundation has joined the #SaveTheRio campaign and will become a shareholder in the property. Those who donate to the foundation will receive a tax receipt.

      The 80-year-old theatre near the corner of East Broadway and Commercial Drive is a vibrant hub of culture, offering everything from live comedy to concerts to burlesque to movies on a single screen.

      It was put up for sale this year by a group of five owners.

      Lea owns the company that leases and operates the theatre. Her company also holds the liquor licence for the venue.

      The lease isn't due to expire for eight years.

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