Step back in time adn celebrate the rich history of cinema! The Rio Cinema in Ventspils, Latvia, one of the world’s oldest continuously operating movie theaters, recently marked its 114th anniversary, a testament to its enduring appeal. Learn about the special events, screenings, and cultural significance of this historic landmark and discover why the Rio Cinema remains a vibrant center for film lovers.
Ventspils’ Rio Cinema Celebrates 114 Years of Continuous Operation
The historic Rio Cinema in Ventspils, Latvia, one of the oldest continuously operating cinemas globally, marked its 114th anniversary April 11 with a day of special events.
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A Century of Cinema: Ancient Importance
The Rio Cinema, originally named “North Pole,” first opened its doors on April 11, 1911. Designed and founded as a cinema in 1910, it stands as one of the oldest cinemas in Northern Europe and worldwide. Its enduring presence has made it a cornerstone of Latvian cinema culture.
The cinema has retained its historical charm while incorporating state-of-the-art technology, ensuring its continued popularity as a premier film-viewing destination in Ventspils. The building itself is a testament to architectural preservation, offering patrons a unique blend of nostalgia and modern cinematic experience.
Anniversary Festivities: A Day of Premieres and Prizes
The anniversary festivity featured a diverse program designed to appeal to film enthusiasts of all ages. The day included:
- exclusive Premieres: Showcasing the latest films from Latvia and international cinema.
- Filmmaker interactions: Providing opportunities to meet directors, actors, and other industry professionals.
- Special Offers: Including discounted tickets, prizes, and other surprises for attendees.
The cinema opened its doors at 2:30 p.m., with a dedicated creative center for children providing entertainment throughout the afternoon.
Screening Schedule and Special Events
The day’s screenings,which began at 3:30 p.m. and continued thru the evening, featured a mix of classic and contemporary films.Each screening included a raffle, offering attendees the chance to win prizes from the cinema and its supporters.
Screening Times:
- 3:30 p.m.
- 4:00 p.m.
- 5:30 p.m.
- 8:30 p.m.
A highlight of the day was the 6:00 p.m. screening of “Straume,” a cartoon that once contended for an Oscar. Following the film, unique cards featuring the signatures of authors G. Zilbaloža and M.Kaža were raffled off.
“Lotus” premiere and Filmmaker Q&A
The evening culminated in the premiere of the movie “Lotus” at 8:00 p.m. The screening featured the participation of the film’s actor and creative team, giving viewers a unique opportunity to engage with the filmmakers and learn about the production process. The premiere also included a lottery with surprise prizes and autographed posters.
The event provided a rare glimpse behind the scenes, allowing audience members to connect with the artists and gain a deeper thankfulness for the film.
Cinema’s Enduring Appeal
We are pleased to celebrate the longtime history of the cinema
Rioand once again gather movie lovers together to enjoy unforgettable moments on the big screen.
The Rio Cinema’s commitment to providing a memorable cinematic experience has solidified its place as a beloved cultural institution in Ventspils. Its ability to adapt to changing times while preserving its historical charm ensures its continued relevance for generations to come.
Ticketing and information
Tickets for the anniversary screenings were available for purchase in advance at the Rio Cinema box office and online at www.bezrindas.lv. Seating was limited, and moviegoers were encouraged to book their tickets early. Additional information and updates were available on the cinema’s social media channels, including Facebook and Instagram.
The cinema’s website, www.kinorio.lv, provides a complete repertoire of upcoming films and events.
