You’ve likely heard of The Plaza Theatre, a key historical building in the heart of Kensington. But what exactly is that history, and how did it become the theatre we know and love today?
When Calgary’s oldest operating cinema was constructed in 1927, it wasn’t that at all, but instead an auto mechanic shop. Later converted into a single-screen cinema, The Plaza Theatre officially opened in 1935 playing the comedy Mr. Skitch. Tickets were 25 cents.
Prices may have risen over the years, but The Plaza itself has managed to survive everything thrown its way, from floods to recessions to the rise of streaming services. Everything, that is, until the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.
But the story doesn’t end here. Calgarian (and movie-lover) Fatima Allie Dobrowolski took over the lease in 2021 to save and revitalize the cinema she and her husband had loved for years.
“The Plaza has always been at the heart of the local community,” she writes on The Plaza’s website. “It’s been witness to so many meaningful events and we are delighted it will be around to be witness to so many more.”
New and improved
The Plaza reopened in 2022, boasting lush pink carpets and furnishings, local art depicting classic films, a charming cafe, and a speakeasy-style cocktail bar.
All day, visitors can access The Plaza Cafe, which serves a menu of Phil and Sebastian coffee, tea from The Naked Leaf, doughnuts from Hoopla Donuts, and of course, delicious, buttery popcorn!
From 4 p.m. to midnight (or 11 p.m. on Sunday), the Sidebar serves up expertly crafted cocktails like sharable sangrias, classic Moscow mules, and tropical Mai Tais. Nothing beats a pre- or post-movie debrief over savoury sips like these.
The theatre itself has retained its historic charm, with rows of classic red theatre seats and rich velvet curtains that part when the show begins.
It’s not just a place to see a movie but rather experience one. Share in the laughter, gasps, and tears elicited by new releases, indie films, and classics alike, because if there’s one thing a good movie does, it’s bring people together.
Where: 1133 Kensington Rd. N.W.
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