At the Patricia Theatre, named in 2019 at the top of the list of 10 best movie theatres in Canada by Chatelaine magazine, the Powell River Film Society plans are to preserve the historic aesthetic of the venue, while upgrading comfort and cinematic and audio quality.

The building is an example of the Spanish Revival expression of the Arts and Crafts movement, which is rarely seen in Canada and more common to California, Florida and Texas.

It is one of only a handful of surviving atmospheric theatres in all of Canada, where the architectural elements and ornamentation evoke a sense of being outdoors. This was intended to make the patron a more active participant in the setting.

The Film Society is committed to restoring its original murals, décor, stained glass and metal canopy and flag pole – elements that define the theatre’s unique position amongst heritage buildings that are still working for a living, and specifically, still doing what they were designed for more than 90 years ago.

The Patricia’s superb acoustics, sightlines and proportions are the hallmark of a timeless professionally designed building. Its full restoration will be spectacular!