There’s nothing cozier in the fall and winter months than curling up for a movie or live show. And if your goal is always to support local, even better, because Vancouver is home to many independent theatres worth visiting. Whether it’s a comedy show, concert, movie screening, or musical that you’re after, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for at these neighbourhood spots around town. So let’s dive in!
Here are 7 independent theatres to check out in Vancouver this fall.
VIFF Centre
Home of the Vancouver International Film Fest, VIFF Centre is pretty much the capital of film culture in Western Canada. Founded in 1982, the Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society operates year-round, with tons of acclaimed films on the roster. Right now, this includes Eyes Wide Shut, Singing Back the Buffalo, The Double Life of Veronique, and
Electric Lady Studios: A Jimi Hendrix Vision, just to name a few.
Where: 1181 Seymour Street
The Rio
Now playing Strange Darling, Longlegs, Cuckoo and (soon) – Beetlejuice Beetlejuice and Back to the Future I and II, the Rio always shows a mix of cult-favourite classics (Fridays at midnight) and newer films – and has been voted the #1 Independent Theatre in Vancouver. Check out a late-night screening this fall and enjoy a alcoholic beverage if you so choose!
Where: 1660 East Broadway
Arts Club Theatre Company
This one’s for musical lovers! As the largest not-for-profit urban theatre company in Canada, the Arts Club Theatre offers visitors the chance to see a mix of award-winning drama and comedy performances, musicals, and more.
Formed in 1964, the theatre company is comprised of three locations across the city: The Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage, Granville Island Stage, and Newmont Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre.
Where: 2750 Granville Street, 1585 Johnston Street, and 162 West 1st Avenue
Cinematheque
Founded in 1972, the Cinematheque is a film institute and media education centre renowned for its programming on the art and history of cinema – both Canadian and international. Its year-round calendar consists of curated film exhibitions devoted to classic and contemporary films and filmmakers – definitely a must-visit if you’re an aspiring film buff or want to dip your toes into the world of cinema.
Where: 1131 Howe Street
The Improv Centre
This Granville Island theatre doubles as Vancouver’s best-known improv theatre company, originally formed in 1981 as The Vancouver TheatreSports League. Here, audience members get to enjoy local improvisational theatre productions that will have you laughing, crying, and everything in between. Right now, you can check out “Betrayers” on Fridays and Saturdays until November 2nd, as well as a ton of regular weekly shows.
Where: 1502 Duranleau Street
Hollywood Theatre
This classic art deco theatre in Kits has been reimagined as a flexible arts and entertainment space, showing everything from films to touring concerts, to comedy shows. So whether you’re in search of a night out on the town or a specific movie screening, you’ll find plenty of options here.
Where: 3123 West Broadway Street
Dunbar Theatre
This cozy neighbourhood theatre is perfect for those days when you want to get out of the house but still stay cozy. Known for their delicious buttery popcorn, you can check out what’s playing on a daily basis and easily grab tickets online.
Where: 4555 Dunbar Street
So there you have it, movie lovers! Here are some fantastic independent theatres to visit the next time you want to catch a show.
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