The Rio Theatre

The Rio Theatre opened on East Broadway in 1938 and has also been a bowling alley and several other cinemas over the years. Since 2008 it has been run as an independent cinema and live venue, with 409 seats (582 with standing room).

Programming mixes new releases and local independent films with midnight cult classics, comedy, burlesque, live music, spoken word and festivals. A 2012 campaign by the Rio helped change BC liquor rules so that drinks can be served during film screenings, and a 2018 community fundraising campaign helped its owners buy the building.

Highlights at The Rio Theatre

• 409 seats (582 with standing room)
• Films, cult midnight screenings and festivals
• Comedy, burlesque and live music
• Licensed bar during screenings

Location: where The Rio Theatre is

The Rio Theatre is at 1660 East Broadway, Vancouver, BC.

• Commercial–Broadway Station (about 3 min walk)
• Commercial Drive cafés and restaurants (about 5 min walk)
• Trout Lake Park (about 15 min walk)

Getting there and parking

Walk a few minutes from Commercial–Broadway Station (Expo and Millennium lines) or take a bus along Broadway.

Good for

• Rainy days
• Film lovers
• Date night
• Comedy

The Rio Theatre: frequently asked questions

What's on at the Rio Theatre?
A mix of new and independent films, midnight cult classics, comedy, burlesque and live music; check the schedule online.

How big is the Rio Theatre?
It has 409 seats, or 582 with standing room.