After 75 years of operating the Salmar Classic, the Salmar Community Association is looking for parties interested in taking over the city's first movie theatre.
In a media release, the Salmar board explained it had completed a thorough review of the Classic and has concluded continued operation of the theatre is "no longer feasible." This was after exploring a "wide-variety of alternative uses" for the 360 Alexander Street NE property, which includes office spaces above.
"Rather, the Salmar intends to concentrate all current and future business activities at the Salmar Grand multiplex location," said the board, referring to its Hudson Street theatre location.
The Salmar board said it is seeking expressions of interest from other parties prepared to use the Classic for their own purposes.The board asked that written expressions of interest include a general description of the proposed use of the facility, "commentary regarding financial viability, and considerations for the ongoing maintenance of the building. Submitters may wish to consider possible financial grants from third parties."
The Salmar Classic Theatre began operation as the Salmar Theatre in 1949, replacing the outdated Rex Theatre.
The Salmar Community Association was formed in 1946 to construct an arena (the SASCU Indoor Memorial Sports Complex). The association built the Classic to help raise funds for this endeavour.
The Salmar Classic is one of the commercial buildings in the City of Salmon Arm Community Heritage Register.
"The Salmar Theatre has cultural value through ongoing upgrades and renovations that make possible its continued use as a theatre and small concert venue and for filling the role served by the original Rex Theatre, an indication of the importance and long-standing presence of the arts in Salmon Arm鈥�," reads the Register. "The Salmar Theatre is valued by residents for its character, history and ownership by the Salmon Arm Community Association. The Association was incorporated in 1949 (now known as the Salmar Community Association) and continues to be involved in community projects including sports and recreation, health care and the arts."
Expressions of interest must be submitted to submissions@salmartheatre.com prior to Sept. 15, 2024.
