Helvetica Productions is once again proud to present Tits the Season! at the Rio Theatre on Saturday, December 14!

Proving that there’s no business like snow business, Helvetica Productions is back with a fourth installment of Vancouver’s naughtiest and nicest new holiday tradition: Tits the Season!

Come make a holidate with this over-the-top festive extravaganza featuring drag, burlesque, circus, and variety performers from Vancouver and beyond. The bow on top of this holiday present is that the show will be headlined by an iconic King - global sensation Landon Cider, Winner of The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula!

This holiday spectacular is sure to keep you Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree and warmer than a cup of mulled wine! So, meet us under the mistletoe, Yule definitely be entertained!

Saturday, December 14
Early Show
Doors 5:00 pm | Show 6:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Snowbells $40+ s/c
(Rows K-O and Balcony)

Snowballers $55+ s/c
(Rows F-J)

Snow Angels VIP $75+ s/c (Rows A-E / Includes swag bag full of holiday presents, including a signed photo from Landon Cider.)
Limited VIP tickets available — frost come, frost served!

Headliner: Landon Cider

Batty Banks
Ariel Helvetica and Chelsea Hart
Elektra + The Soul Star
Monday Blues
Skim
Arabella Boop
Helvetica’s Follies
Misty Blue
VBC’s Fatlesque

Hosted by: Miss Kiss

And more TBA! Full cast announcements coming soon — so hold onto your (Santa) hats until then!

Cast subject to change.

Proudly sponsored by ShoeFreaks.ca

About Helvetica Productions:

With more than a decade of experience under her G-String, Ariel Helvetica is everyone’s type. She has boldly crossed the globe (and uncrossed her legs) in some of the top burlesque shows across Europe, Canada, and the USA. With her unique blend of glamour, cheese, and stratospheric high-kicks, this purveyor of Tits and Teeth has received many accolades, including performing twice at the Burlesque Hall of Fame, as well as being named one of 21st Century Burlesque Magazine’s Most Influential Performers.

Underlining her performance bonafides, Ariel is also the Assistant Director of the Vancouver Burlesque Company, and in late 2021 she combined her burlesque prowess and showbiz moxie to create Helvetica Productions, which debuted with two sold-out shows of the holiday smash Tits the Season.

Helvetica Productions is once again proud to present Tits the Season! at the Rio Theatre on Saturday, December 14!

Proving that there’s no business like snow business, Helvetica Productions is back with a fourth installment of Vancouver’s naughtiest and nicest new holiday tradition: Tits the Season!

Come make a holidate with this over-the-top festive extravaganza featuring drag, burlesque, circus, and variety performers from Vancouver and beyond. The bow on top of this holiday present is that the show will be headlined by an iconic King - global sensation Landon Cider, Winner of The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula!

This holiday spectacular is sure to keep you Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree and warmer than a cup of mulled wine! So, meet us under the mistletoe, Yule definitely be entertained!

Saturday, December 14
Late Show
Doors 9:00 pm | Show 10:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Snowbells $40+ s/c
(Rows K-O and Balcony)

Snowballers $55+ s/c
(Rows F-J)

Snow Angels VIP $75+ s/c (Rows A-E / Includes swag bag full of holiday presents, including a signed photo from Landon Cider.)
Limited VIP tickets available — frost come, frost served!

Headliner: Landon Cider

Batty Banks
Ariel Helvetica and Chelsea Hart
Elektra + The Soul Star
Monday Blues
Skim
Arabella Boop
Helvetica’s Follies
Misty Blue
VBC’s Fatlesque

Hosted by: Miss Kiss

And more TBA! Full cast announcements coming soon — so hold onto your (Santa) hats until then!

Cast subject to change.

Proudly sponsored by ShoeFreaks.ca

About Helvetica Productions:

With more than a decade of experience under her G-String, Ariel Helvetica is everyone’s type. She has boldly crossed the globe (and uncrossed her legs) in some of the top burlesque shows across Europe, Canada, and the USA. With her unique blend of glamour, cheese, and stratospheric high-kicks, this purveyor of Tits and Teeth has received many accolades, including performing twice at the Burlesque Hall of Fame, as well as being named one of 21st Century Burlesque Magazine’s Most Influential Performers.

Underlining her performance bonafides, Ariel is also the Assistant Director of the Vancouver Burlesque Company, and in late 2021 she combined her burlesque prowess and showbiz moxie to create Helvetica Productions, which debuted with two sold-out shows of the holiday smash Tits the Season.

The Muppets perform the classic Charles Dickens holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, the put-upon clerk of stingy Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine). Other Muppets --Miss Piggy, Gonzo, Fozzie Bear and Sam the Eagle -- weave in and out of the story, while Scrooge receives visits from spirits of three Christmases -- past, present and future. They show him the error of his self-serving ways, but the miserable old man seems to be past any hope of redemption and happiness.

"There may be some people who can watch Kermit the Frog's nephew Robin give his heart-wrenching performance as Tiny Tim in The Muppet Christmas Carol without choking up. I am not among them." (The Guardian)

"Michael Caine is perfect and there are many genuine belly laughs." (Empire Magazine)

Sunday, December 15
Doors 11:00 am | Movie 11:30 am *Please arrive on time. Start time subject to change.

Kids Pricing In Effect! Kids under 10 just $8!

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL (Brian Henson, 1992 / G / 85 mins) A retelling of the classic Dickens tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, miser extraordinaire. He is held accountable for his dastardly ways during night-time visitations by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and future.

The light, the lives, and the textures of contemporary, working-class Mumbai are explored and celebrated by writer/director Payal Kapadia, who won the Grand Prize at this year’s Cannes Film Festival (the first Indian film to be selected for competition in 30 years!) for her revelatory fiction feature debut.

Centering on two roommates who also work together in a city hospital—head nurse Prabha and recent hire Anu —plus their coworker, cook Parvaty, Kapadia’s film alights on moments of connection and heartache, hope and disappointment. Prabha, her husband from an arranged marriage living in faraway Germany, is courted by a doctor at her hospital; Anu carries on a romance with a Muslim man, which she must keep a secret from her strict Hindu family; Parvaty finds herself dealing with a sudden eviction from her apartment. Kapadia captures the bustle of the metropolis and the open-air tranquility of a seaside village with equal radiance, articulated by her superb actresses and by the camera with a lyrical naturalism that occasionally drifts into dreamlike incandescence. ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT is a soulful study of the transformative power of friendship and sisterhood, in all its complexities and richness. With Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam.

A bona fide audience and critical hit at major festivals around the world, and ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT has elevated its director, Payal Kapadia, from documentary-maker to celebrated auteur.

"There are a million stories in the naked city, and Kapadia is about to show you three of them in the most delicate, moving way possible. She’s also about to mount a quiet, sneak attack on your soul." (Rolling Stone Magazine)

"A portrait of female loneliness, longing, and suffering that derives its power from its subtle lyricism and heartfelt empathy." (The Daily Beast)

"A miraculously subtle piece of work... Its writer and director, Payal Kapadia, was born in Mumbai and that’s where she sets her first drama — not the bustling battlefields of 'Slumdog Millionaire' or 'Monkey Man,' but a rainy city marked by the anonymity of crowds and small spaces... It’s as if the director herself has run into an existential choice: to show women in the fullness of their complications, frustrated and abandoned? Or to give them an escape? Fittingly, for a filmmaker who already seems major, her answer is simple. We need both." (Los Angeles Times)

Sunday, December 15
Doors 1:15 pm | Movie 1:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT (Payal Kapadia, 2024 / 118 mins / PG / Hindi with English subtitles) In Mumbai, Nurse Prabha’s routine is troubled when she receives an unexpected gift from her estranged husband. Her younger roommate, Anu, tries in vain to find a spot in the city to be intimate with her boyfriend. A trip to a beach town allows them to find a space for their desires to manifest.

Vancouver's Kingsgate Chorus returns to the Rio Theatre on Sunday, December 15 with "Atmospheric Shiver," a night of rousing choral music in support of The Aboriginal Friendship Centre.

Sunday, December 15
With Ride By Night
Doors at 6:45 pm | Show 7:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

General Admission $25+ s/c
Seniors & Students (With Valid ID) $20+ s/c
Youth (18 and under) $15+ s/c

No matter how loud you sing or chant, "One More Time" this vibrantly restored and remastered in 4K screening of Daft Punk & Leiji Matsumoto’s, epically, wicked, INTERSTELLA 5555: THE 5STORY OF THE 5ECRET 5STAR 5YSTEM, happens on December 15 for a ONE NIGHT, ONLY ONE MORE TIME Encore at the Rio Theatre.

“We’re excited to bring Daft Punk’s iconic 'Interstella 5555,' now fully remastered in stunning 4K, to cinemas for a global event,” Trafalgar Releasing CEO Marc Allenby said in a statement. “This is a rare opportunity to experience the film on the big screen, along with accompanying Daft Punk music videos, and we can’t wait to share it with audiences everywhere.”

INTERSTELLA 5555: THE 5STORY OF THE 5ECRET 5STAR 5YSTEM was created by Daft Punk and Cédric Hervet in collaboration with Leiji Matsumoto and Toei Animation, and tells the story of the abduction of an alien music band by an evil human character who has dark plans. Essentially an anime visual album, Interstella features the entirety of Daft Punk’s seminal 2001 album Discovery as its soundtrack, including iconic anthems such as “One More Time,” “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger,” and “Veridis Quo.” Says Shinji Shimizu of Toei Animation, who produced the film, “‘One More Time’ was playing all over the town at that time! I felt so proud that I wanted to shout to people on the street, ‘We are making its animation now!’” As a visual album, the film was cut into individual music videos, and until this year it has been very rare to see the film in its entirety in cinemas.

"... a visual and aural treat of intergalactic proportions." (BBC)

Sunday, December 15 ONE MORE TIME Encore (No More Screenings Permitted in CANADA after this!!)
Doors 10:15 pm | Movie 10:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

INTERSTELLA 5555: THE 5STORY OF THE 5ECRET 5STAR 5YSTEM (Leigi Matsumoto, 2003 / 66 mins / PG) Four talented alien musicians are kidnapped by a record producer who disguises them as humans. Shep, a space pilot in love with bass player Stella, follows them to Earth. Reprogrammed to forget their real identities and renamed The Crescendolls, the group quickly becomes a huge success playing soulless corporate pop. At a concert, Shep manages to free all the musicians except Stella, and the band sets out to rediscover who they really are -- and to rescue Stella.

A wondrous journey, through realms natural and mystical, the Latvian animated adventure FLOW follows a courageous cat after his home is devastated by a great flood. Teaming up with a capybara, a lemur, a bird, and a dog to navigate a boat in search of dry land, they must rely on trust, courage, and wits to survive the perils of a newly aquatic planet. From the boundless imagination of the award-winning filmmaker Gints Zilbalodis (AWAY) comes a thrilling animated spectacle as well as a profound meditation on the fragility of the environment and the spirit of friendship and community. Steeped in the soaring possibilities of visual storytelling, FLOW is a feast for the senses and a treasure for the heart.

Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with a score of 98%, FLOW is the best-reviewed animated film of the year. Following a world premiere in Cannes, the film then screened in Annecy where it won three juried prizes as well as the Audience Award, before going onto a North American premiere at TIFF. FLOW was also selected as the Latvian entry for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards.

"Critic's Pick! Zilbalodis largely avoids the sort of whimsy and sentimentality that might plague, say, a Disney movie with the same premise. The animals act like real animals, not like cartoons or humans, and that restraint gives their adventure an authenticity that, in moments of both delight and peril, makes the emotion that much more powerful."
(The New York Times)

"The real takeaway is that we have to rely on each other for salvation. And it’s here where this experiential experiment in empathy, eco-activism and elation over the creative possibilities of a medium too often hijacked to sell toys truly hits its marks." (Rolling Stone Magazine)

"The Latvian film is part brilliant experiment, part cutesy animal movie, but engrossing for all audiences—even if it might, like Fantasia, stick uncomfortably in the memories of the youngest in attendance." (AV Club)

""One of the year’s richest discoveries, 'Flow' belongs as much to a timeline of animal-centric masterpieces ('Au hasard Balthazar,' 'Gunda,' 'EO') as it does the history of animated indies. And in its simple, generous spirit of giving these creatures palpable narrative power, there’s a profundity: 'Flow' might only be imagining their coping skills without us, but it’s a charming, poignant vision of community and perseverance we could stand to be inspired by." (Los Angeles Times)

Tuesday, December 17
Doors 6:00 pm | Movie 6:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

FLOW (Gints Zilbalodis, 2024 / 85 mins / PG) The world seems to be coming to an end, teeming with the vestiges of a human presence. Cat is a solitary animal, but as its home is devastated by a great flood, he finds refuge on a boat populated by various species, and will have to team up with them despite their differences. In the lonesome boat sailing through mystical overflowed landscapes, they navigate the challenges and dangers of adapting to this new world.

The Smith family's much-needed vacation to the remote Swedish island of Svalta takes a dark turn when they arrive during preparations for a mysterious local festival that celebrates a dark history. Unsettled by the unfriendly locals and strange rituals, they try to make the best of their trip, stubbornly enjoying the island's isolation and natural beauty. However, as the festival looms closer, the family realizes something far more sinister is unfolding--especially when they discover that a serial killer is on the loose. Starring Nick Frost (who also wrote the film), Aisling Bea, Sebastian Croft.

"Get Away' gets by on the charms of its cast and an overall sense of demented glee, but it never aspires to be anything other than a frequently amusing diversion." (Bloody Disgusting)

"... A deceptive blast that properly exploits vacationer stereotypes to conceal vastly more wicked intentions." (Collider)

"'Get Away' is a blend of folk horror, comedy, and violent thrills that takes audiences on a goofy, bloody trip." (The Blogging Banshee)

Tuesday, December 17
Doors 8:15 pm | Movie 8:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

GET AWAY (Steffan Haars, 2024 / 14A / 90 mins) A family's vacation to a remote getaway takes an unexpected turn when they discover the island they're on is inhabited by a serial killer.

The live, smash hit epic comedy THE CRITICAL HIT SHOW returns to the Rio Theatre's stage on Wednesday, December 18 for more monstrous mirth, merriment, and snacks! (And maybe some mistletoe...?!?)

Prepare yourself for a generous dose of laughter and holiday cheer, as some of Vancouver’s best comedic performers grace the stage in a night featuring intrepid players on a gallant quest for comedy glory (and more snacks!) in a hilariously epic adventure saga that has been running continuously since 2012.

Spanning over 100 live performances in both Canada and the United States, two years of “at-home” streaming, and frequent festival appearances, The Critical Hit Show is one of the longest running comedy shows around. #DNDLive is an improvised adventure that takes its inspiration from tabletop role-playing games, fantasy film and TV, and (most importantly) you!

Whether you’re a longtime fan, you’ve been enjoying our live streamed shows, or you’re brand new to The Critical Hit Show - you’re going to have a great time.

Wednesday, December 18
Doors 6:15 pm | Show 7:00 pm *Please arrive on time. Start time subject to change.
Advance tickets $17 +s/c | $20+ s/c at the door

THE ADVENTURERS

Eric Fell as The Dungeon Master
Ian Boothby as Benoit the Anointed, the Half-Elf Cleric
Joanna Gaskell as Freya, the Elf Warlock
Barbara Beall as Ingrid, the Halfling Fighter
Ellen MacNevin as Belle Strummer, the Half-Elf Ranger
Allen Morrison as Spitz Lube’n, the Human Wizard
Shaun Stewart as Brask Hellbeard, the Dwarf Bard

More monsters! More Magic! More Mayhem! More Off-Brand soda!

Twitter: @critshow
www.criticalhitshow.com
www.facebook.com/dndlive

"If this movie doesn't make your skin crawl... It's on TOO TIGHT!"

Join us at the Rio Theatre for a night of retro Holiday cheer - and fear! - with the brand new 50th Anniversary 4K restoration of the bloody fantastic Can-con slasher, BLACK CHRISTMAS. Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without some holiday horror on the big screen, would it? Margot Kidder (SUPERMAN), Olivia Hussey (ROMEO & JULIET) and Kier Dullea star in Bob Clark's classic (Canadian!) 70s Santa-slasher slay ride BLACK CHRISTMAS.

Holiday movies are sentimental and uplifting, but surprisingly devoid of knife murders. BLACK CHRISTMAS is here to help. When sorority sisters Hussey, Kidder and Andrea Martin (SCTV) find themselves under attack from a foul-mouthed killer, it’s up to police chief John Saxon (A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET) to even the odds. But what about Keir Dullea (2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY), the brooding art-school pianist? Could he have something to do with the mutilation rampage?

One part frosty Christmas atmosphere, one part stalk ‘n’ slash magnificence, and all parts awesome, BLACK CHRISTMAS is a timeless, terrifying, and demented holiday tradition. Years before he crafted the ultimate comedic yuletime experience A CHRISTMAS STORY, genre pioneer Bob Clark gave us one of the most influential Hitchcockian slashers of all time. BLACK CHRISTMAS gets everything right.

"Quite literally terrifying." (Hysteria Lives)

Wednesday, December 18
Doors 9:00 pm | Movie 9:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

BLACK CHRISTMAS (Bob Clark, 1974 / 98 mins / 18A) As winter break begins, a group of sorority sisters, including Jess and the often inebriated Barb, begin to receive anonymous, lascivious phone calls. Initially, Barb eggs the caller on, but stops when he responds threateningly. Soon, Barb's friend Claire goes missing from the sorority house, and a local adolescent girl is murdered, leading the girls to suspect a serial killer is on the loose. But no one realizes just how near the culprit is...

“I find it poor logic to say that because women are good, women should vote. Men do not vote because they are good; they vote because they are male, and women should vote, not because we are angels and men are animals, but because we are human beings and citizens of this country.”

And here we are, 3  decades later after it's release and Rio Theatre movie goers, you have voted indeed and this Christmas we are pleased to bring to our screen for the first time, the 1994 Oscar-nominated film adaption of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel, LITTLE WOMEN, 30th Anniversary Screening. Featuring the immersive, full orchestral sound and award winning score by Thomas Newman on our state of the art sound system. Directed by Gillian Armstrong and filmed primarily in parts of Canada, such as Vancouver Island and Vancouver.

Jo struggles for independence and sometimes clashes with her beloved mother and sisters Meg, Amy and Beth. She also contends with their cranky Aunt March, their impulsive neighbor Laurie and kindly linguistics professor Friedrich Bhaer.

"More than any other version of Little Women, this film, directed by Gillian Armstrong (My Brilliant Career) and shot around British Columbia, emphasizes the adolescence of the March sisters as not so much a sequence of events, but a rich association of emotionally potent memories. Starring a zeitgeist-worthy cast of talent—including Winona Ryder (Jo), Kirsten Dunst (Amy), Claire Danes (Beth), Christian Bale (Laurie), and Susan Sarandon (Marmee)—this portrait of a family across four years is intimate, lively, and full of inventive staging. You can see this in the first meeting of the March family and Laurie, the slightly forlorn boy next door; Jo’s theatrical rehearsals; or the social gatherings that reveal new aspects of each young woman’s character. Little Women​’s telling of the bittersweet process of partings, reunions, and artistic maturation marks its 30th anniversary this year, a distance that perhaps only deepens the film’s skillful evocation of passing time." (The Cinematheque)

"It's a film about how all of life seems to stretch ahead of us when we're young, and how, through a series of choices, we narrow our destiny. "Little Women" may be marketed for children and teenagers, but my hunch is it will be best appreciated by their parents." (Roger Ebert)

Thursday, December 19
Doors 5:50 pm | Film 6:20 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time. 

"The Little People" 4-Pack | 4 Tickets just $40 (Available online in advance only)

LITTLE WOMEN (Gillian Armstrong | 1994 | 119 mins | PG) With their father away as a chaplain in the Civil War, Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy grow up with their mother in somewhat reduced circumstances. They are a close family who inevitably have their squabbles and tragedies. But the bond holds even when, later, male friends start to become a part of the household.

"First of all, keep him out of the light, he hates bright light, especially sunlight, it'll kill him. Second, don't give him any water, not even to drink. But the most important rule, the rule you can never forget, no matter how much he cries, no matter how much he begs, never feed him after midnight..."

'Gizmo' is having a birthday, so we are celebrating Joe Dante's iconic horror-comedy GREMLINS with a 40th Anniversary screening on Thursday, December 19. Written by Chris Columbus (THE GOONIES, HOME ALONE), GREMLINS is a hilarious holiday classic that appeals to kids of all ages (especially if they grew up in the 80s).

When a gadget salesman is looking for that special Christmas gift for his son Billy, he happens upon something totally unusual at an old store in Chinatown. Though the shopkeeper is reluctant to sell him the adorable "Mogwai," creature, he sells it to him anyway - with a few important caveats. Never expose him to bright light, water, or to feed him after midnight. When the instructions aren't followed, chaos ensues when a gang of mischevious, lizard-like gremlins appear, wreaking havoc and tearing up the Norman Rockwell-esque town on Christmas Eve. Starring Phoebe Cates, Zach Galligan, Corey Feldman, Polly Holliday, Keye Luke and… Gizmo.

"This postmodern, endlessly referential, utterly ruthless film is an ingenious, delightfully scary fairytale horror flick ..." (The Observer)

"Think of 'A Christmas Carol' visited by 'The Birds.' Think of 'The Muppet Movie' run amok. Imagine a berserk film editor splicing 'It's a Wonderful Life' to 'Invasion of the Body Snatchers,' with quoting from 'Snow White' and a nod to 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre'." (Christian Science Monitor)

Thursday, December 19
Doors 8:30 pm | Movie 9:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

GREMLINS (Joe Dante, 1984 / 106 mins / PG) | When Billy Peltzer is given a strange but adorable pet named Gizmo for Christmas, he inadvertently breaks the three important rules of caring for a Mogwai, and unleashes a horde of mischievous gremlins on his small town.

The Muppets perform the classic Charles Dickens holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, the put-upon clerk of stingy Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine). Other Muppets --Miss Piggy, Gonzo, Fozzie Bear and Sam the Eagle -- weave in and out of the story, while Scrooge receives visits from spirits of three Christmases -- past, present and future. They show him the error of his self-serving ways, but the miserable old man seems to be past any hope of redemption and happiness.

"There may be some people who can watch Kermit the Frog's nephew Robin give his heart-wrenching performance as Tiny Tim in The Muppet Christmas Carol without choking up. I am not among them." (The Guardian)

"Michael Caine is perfect and there are many genuine belly laughs." (Empire Magazine)

Friday, December 20
Doors 5:30 pm | Movie 6:00 pm *Please arrive on time. Start time subject to change.

Kids Pricing In Effect! Kids under 10 just $8!

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL (Brian Henson, 1992 / G / 85 mins) A retelling of the classic Dickens tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, miser extraordinaire. He is held accountable for his dastardly ways during night-time visitations by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and future.

Two young missionary "sisters" are forced to prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a diabolical Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant, in one of the most talked about performances of 2024), becoming ensnared in his deadly game of cat-and-mouse. With Sophie Thatcher, Chloe East.

"There is no way to compete with the all-consuming and utterly mesmerizing performance of heartthrob-turned-unhinged-psychopath Hugh Grant ... He is charming in a grotesque way, like a blueberry pie mottled by maggots." (Seattle Refined)

"A complex debate on the legitimacy of religion that arrives framed in absolutely captivating staging." (Los Angeles Times)

"If 'Heretic' proves nothing else, it’s that creepy, evil Hugh Grant is the best Hugh Grant." (Rolling Stone Magazine)

"Hugh Grant uses his charm for evil in this provocative cat-and-mouse game about the meaning, if any, of religion in a godless modern world. The romcom dreamboat of yore has been replaced by a diabolical presence eager to send us all to hell. What fun." (ABC News)

Friday, December 20
Doors 7:45 pm | Movie 8:15 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

HERETIC (Scott Beck & Bryan Woods, 2024 / 111 mins / 14A) Two young missionaries are forced to prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a diabolical Mr. Reed, becoming ensnared in his deadly game of cat-and-mouse.

"Yippee ki yay, motherfudger!

Send your movie-loving' self into Christmas overdrive with what is - hands down - one of the absolute biggest, baddest motherfudging edge-of-your-seat big screen thrill rides ever, DIE HARD. In (arguably) his signature performance, Bruce Willis shines as a streetsmart (and mostly barefoot!) cop tasked with outsmarting a group of terrorists who have taken over a building in downtown LA. Also starring the late, great Alan Rickman (Hans Gruber!) and Bonnie Bedelia.

"Its many imitators (and sequels) have never come close to matching the taut thrills of the definitive holiday action classic." (Rotten Tomatoes)

"DIE HARD is an action picture with a capital A. In fact, you might as well go ahead and capitalize the whole darn word." (Orlando Sentinel)

"For all its moments of almost overwhelming cheese, DIE HARD is still the definitive action thriller." (Total Film)

Friday, December 20
Doors 10:30 pm | Movie 11:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Late Night Date Night! Friday Late Night Movies are two-for-one entry, so bring a bestie, date or an estranged ex and be a hero!

DIE HARD (John McTiernan, 1988 / 131 mins / 18A) New York City Detective John McClane has just arrived in Los Angeles to spend Christmas with his wife. Unfortunately, it is not going to be a Merry Christmas for everyone. A group of terrorists, led by Hans Gruber, is holding everyone in the Nakatomi Plaza building hostage – including Mrs. McClane! With no way of anyone getting in or out, it’s up to the street-smart (and barefoot) McClane to stop them all and save the day.

Deck the halls with endless cereal...

The Saturday Morning All-You-Can-Eat Cereal Cartoon Party is returning to the Rio Theatre with a brand new collection of specially curated retro TV goodness covered in sugary cereal, and sprinkled with endless Holiday cheer. It's Volume VI - The Christmas Show! Even better? This program will be screening on Saturday, December 14 and again on Saturday, December 21, so you have TWO chances to make merry and eat cereal in a movie theatre.

Kids today may not realize the significance of the Saturday morning ritual, but once upon a time, we had to wait a whole week to get our cartoon fix, and when we got it, we tended to binge. Well – welcome to The Saturday Morning All-You-Can-Eat Cereal Cartoon Party - that special time when kids and kids-at-heart get to relive the exciting Saturday morning ritual of non-stop retro cartoons, and binge on the multi-colored sugary cereals that used to be a part of every “balanced” breakfast!

The cartoon lineup is always a mystery, but Volume VI will be covered in an extra coating designed to make merry and spread all kinds of Holiday cheer. Expect the unexpected, from faves and obscurities spanning the '30s through the '90s, all punctuated with vintage commercials, PSAs and station IDs for a 3-hour trip down memory lane! Get ready for a sugar rush and an explosion of nostalgia in one hair-raising morning.

Even better...? A Holidaze COSTUME CONTEST! Show us what you've got, or maybe just show off your best Holiday-inspired jammies. Costumes (and, as always, comfy pajamas in chic patterned flannel sporting elasticized waistbands) are welcome and encouraged.

Curated by David Bertrand

Please note: Dairy-free options are available. Compostable bowls and spoons will be provided, but we absolutely do encourage all of our guests to bring their own NON-BREAKABLE (ie, not ceramic) bowls and spoons.

Saturday, December 21
Doors 10:00 am | Event 10:30 am *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Adults $20
Kids Pricing (13 and under) $14

Group pricing in effect! Grab one of our Reindeer Squad passes - a sweet treat for a birthday party or Holiday celebration of your own.

Reindeer Squad Jr. (2 Adults, 4 kids $90 - online only)
Reindeer Squad Sr. (6 Adults $102 - online only)

A wondrous journey, through realms natural and mystical, the Latvian animated adventure FLOW follows a courageous cat after his home is devastated by a great flood. Teaming up with a capybara, a lemur, a bird, and a dog to navigate a boat in search of dry land, they must rely on trust, courage, and wits to survive the perils of a newly aquatic planet. From the boundless imagination of the award-winning filmmaker Gints Zilbalodis (AWAY) comes a thrilling animated spectacle as well as a profound meditation on the fragility of the environment and the spirit of friendship and community. Steeped in the soaring possibilities of visual storytelling, FLOW is a feast for the senses and a treasure for the heart.

Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with a score of 98%, FLOW is the best-reviewed animated film of the year. Following a world premiere in Cannes, the film then screened in Annecy where it won three juried prizes as well as the Audience Award, before going onto a North American premiere at TIFF. FLOW was also selected as the Latvian entry for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards.

"Critic's Pick! Zilbalodis largely avoids the sort of whimsy and sentimentality that might plague, say, a Disney movie with the same premise. The animals act like real animals, not like cartoons or humans, and that restraint gives their adventure an authenticity that, in moments of both delight and peril, makes the emotion that much more powerful."
(The New York Times)

""One of the year’s richest discoveries, 'Flow' belongs as much to a timeline of animal-centric masterpieces ('Au hasard Balthazar,' 'Gunda,' 'EO') as it does the history of animated indies. And in its simple, generous spirit of giving these creatures palpable narrative power, there’s a profundity: 'Flow' might only be imagining their coping skills without us, but it’s a charming, poignant vision of community and perseverance we could stand to be inspired by." (Los Angeles Times)

Saturday, December 21
Doors 2:15 pm | Movie 2:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

FLOW (Gints Zilbalodis, 2024 / 85 mins / PG) The world seems to be coming to an end, teeming with the vestiges of a human presence. Cat is a solitary animal, but as its home is devastated by a great flood, he finds refuge on a boat populated by various species, and will have to team up with them despite their differences. In the lonesome boat sailing through mystical overflowed landscapes, they navigate the challenges and dangers of adapting to this new world.

A copious cavalcade of top notch talent and captivating cabaret await at The Rio Theatre Burlesque and Variety Show on Saturday, December 21.

Local luminary April O’Peel has curated a show full of wonder sure to dazzle and delight our fun loving audience! The theme is... NO THEME. That’s right! These talented performers will each be performing one act of their choosing. What act will they decide to bring to The Rio Theatre Burlesque and Variety Show!? Find out on October 12, as these stars align for one night only.

Saturday, December 21
Doors at 8:00 pm | Show at 9:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Tickets $30+ s/c | $35+ s/c at the door
VIP tickets (Rows 1-3, centre section) $40+ s/c
Squad Pass (Group of Four Tickets - online only) $100+ s/c

Featuring performances from:

Amnesia Haze
Ariel Helvetica
Bella Bizarre
Disco Squad
Gigi Lavande
Faye Havoc
Maria Sample
Monday Blues
Sensi Kat
Shirley Gnome
Vita Devour & April O'Peel

Hosted by Cookie Craven

"It doesn't matter where the train is going. What matters is deciding to get on."

Late on Christmas Eve, after the town has gone to sleep, a boy boards the mysterious train that waits for him--The Polar Express. When the boy arrives at the North Pole, Santa Claus offers him any gift he desires. The boy asks only for a bell from the harness of Santa's reindeer. But on the way home, the bell is lost. Christmas morning, the boy finds the bell under the Christmas tree, and when he shakes it, the bell makes the most beautiful sound he's ever heard. His mother admires the bell, but she laments that it is broken ... for, you see, only a true believer can hear the sound of the bell.

Based on the classic Christmas story by Chris Von Allsburg.

Academy Award nominations:
Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Song)-"Believe" Music and Lyric by Glen Ballard and Alan Silvestri
Achievement in Sound Editing
Achievement in Sound Mixing
Golden Globe nomination for Best Original Song ("Believe")

"Director Robert Zemeckis adds tenderness to this roller-coaster ride of a train, the thrill and adrenaline are constantly offset with unrestrained emotional punches." (Film Companion)

Saturday, December 22
Doors 10:30 am | Movie 11:00 am *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Kids under 10 just $8

THE POLAR EXPRESS (Robert Zemeckis | 2004 | 100 mins | G) When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.

Grace Pudel (voiced by Sarah Snook) is a lonely misfit with an affinity for collecting ornamental snails and an intense love for books. At a young age, when Grace is separated from her twin brother Gilbert (Kodi Smit-McPhee), she falls into a spiral of anxiety and angst. Despite a continued series of hardships, inspiration and hope emerge when she strikes up an enduring friendship with an elderly eccentric woman named Pinky (Jacki Weaver), who is full of grit and lust for life.

From Academy Award-winning animation writer and director Adam Elliot, MEMOIR OF A SNAIL is a poignant, heartfelt, hilarious chronicle of the life of an outsider finding her confidence and silver linings amongst the clutter of everyday life.

"A grubby delight, a stop-motion charmer that feels like falling into a dumpster and discovering an orchid." (Washington Post)

"A unique experience, and therefore, the best kind of gut punch." (Exclaim!)

"Adam Elliot’s bittersweet tragicomedy Memoir of a Snail packs an unexpected emotional punch as one of the year’s greatest animated films, but also as one of the must-watch movies of 2024. Period." (ThatShelf)

"There’s a story here about being shoved into a shell and choosing to leave it behind, to find a new life beyond safety and fear. Even a snail, the movie eventually reminds us, can only move forward." (New York Times)

Sunday, December 22
Doors 1:00 pm | Movie 1:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

MEMOIR OF A SNAIL (Adam Elliott, 2024 / 14A / 94 mins) A bittersweet memoir of a melancholic woman called Grace Pudel - a hoarder of snails, romance novels, and guinea pigs.

The light, the lives, and the textures of contemporary, working-class Mumbai are explored and celebrated by writer/director Payal Kapadia, who won the Grand Prize at this year’s Cannes Film Festival (the first Indian film to be selected for competition in 30 years!) for her revelatory fiction feature debut.

Centering on two roommates who also work together in a city hospital—head nurse Prabha and recent hire Anu —plus their coworker, cook Parvaty, Kapadia’s film alights on moments of connection and heartache, hope and disappointment. Prabha, her husband from an arranged marriage living in faraway Germany, is courted by a doctor at her hospital; Anu carries on a romance with a Muslim man, which she must keep a secret from her strict Hindu family; Parvaty finds herself dealing with a sudden eviction from her apartment. Kapadia captures the bustle of the metropolis and the open-air tranquility of a seaside village with equal radiance, articulated by her superb actresses and by the camera with a lyrical naturalism that occasionally drifts into dreamlike incandescence. ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT is a soulful study of the transformative power of friendship and sisterhood, in all its complexities and richness. With Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam.

A bona fide audience and critical hit at major festivals around the world, and ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT has elevated its director, Payal Kapadia, from documentary-maker to celebrated auteur.

"There are a million stories in the naked city, and Kapadia is about to show you three of them in the most delicate, moving way possible. She’s also about to mount a quiet, sneak attack on your soul." (Rolling Stone Magazine)

"A portrait of female loneliness, longing, and suffering that derives its power from its subtle lyricism and heartfelt empathy." (The Daily Beast)

"A miraculously subtle piece of work... Its writer and director, Payal Kapadia, was born in Mumbai and that’s where she sets her first drama — not the bustling battlefields of 'Slumdog Millionaire' or 'Monkey Man,' but a rainy city marked by the anonymity of crowds and small spaces... It’s as if the director herself has run into an existential choice: to show women in the fullness of their complications, frustrated and abandoned? Or to give them an escape? Fittingly, for a filmmaker who already seems major, her answer is simple. We need both." (Los Angeles Times)

Sunday, December 22
Doors 2:15 pm | Movie 2:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT (Payal Kapadia, 2024 / 118 mins / PG / Hindi with English subtitles) In Mumbai, Nurse Prabha’s routine is troubled when she receives an unexpected gift from her estranged husband. Her younger roommate, Anu, tries in vain to find a spot in the city to be intimate with her boyfriend. A trip to a beach town allows them to find a space for their desires to manifest.

A wondrous journey, through realms natural and mystical, the Latvian animated adventure FLOW follows a courageous cat after his home is devastated by a great flood. Teaming up with a capybara, a lemur, a bird, and a dog to navigate a boat in search of dry land, they must rely on trust, courage, and wits to survive the perils of a newly aquatic planet. From the boundless imagination of the award-winning filmmaker Gints Zilbalodis (AWAY) comes a thrilling animated spectacle as well as a profound meditation on the fragility of the environment and the spirit of friendship and community. Steeped in the soaring possibilities of visual storytelling, FLOW is a feast for the senses and a treasure for the heart.

Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with a score of 98%, FLOW is the best-reviewed animated film of the year. Following a world premiere in Cannes, the film then screened in Annecy where it won three juried prizes as well as the Audience Award, before going onto a North American premiere at TIFF. FLOW was also selected as the Latvian entry for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards.

"Critic's Pick! Zilbalodis largely avoids the sort of whimsy and sentimentality that might plague, say, a Disney movie with the same premise. The animals act like real animals, not like cartoons or humans, and that restraint gives their adventure an authenticity that, in moments of both delight and peril, makes the emotion that much more powerful."
(The New York Times)

""One of the year’s richest discoveries, 'Flow' belongs as much to a timeline of animal-centric masterpieces ('Au hasard Balthazar,' 'Gunda,' 'EO') as it does the history of animated indies. And in its simple, generous spirit of giving these creatures palpable narrative power, there’s a profundity: 'Flow' might only be imagining their coping skills without us, but it’s a charming, poignant vision of community and perseverance we could stand to be inspired by." (Los Angeles Times)

Monday, December 22
Doors 4:00 pm | Movie 4:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

FLOW (Gints Zilbalodis, 2024 / 85 mins / PG) The world seems to be coming to an end, teeming with the vestiges of a human presence. Cat is a solitary animal, but as its home is devastated by a great flood, he finds refuge on a boat populated by various species, and will have to team up with them despite their differences. In the lonesome boat sailing through mystical overflowed landscapes, they navigate the challenges and dangers of adapting to this new world.

"What is it you want, Mary? You want the moon? Just say the word and I'll throw a lasso around it and pull it down.”

Hot Dog! At this time of year, we get inundated with audience requests for the "holiday classic to define all holiday classics,"Frank Capra's IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, and are continuing our tradition of giving it the big viewing it so richly deserves.

For movie-lovers around the world, this bittersweet yet optimistic sentimental comedy drama is as essential a holiday tradition as chestnuts roasting on an open fire. And we couldn't agree more! Beyond its own charming warmth, IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE is one of the most influential fantasy films ever made and one of the most universally adored example of old-school Hollywood. Come on out to dance by the light of the moon and get put under the magic spell (again!) of this transcendent cinematic masterpiece - with the newly restored, big-screen viewing it so richly deserves.

Jimmy Stewart gives one of his all-time best performances as George Bailey, a good man with a big heart. Though George is the guiding force behind the modest local building and loan company he inherited from his own generous father, he is eternally in debt himself, and has spent his entire life giving of himself to the people of Bedford Falls. George has always longed to travel beyond his idyllic small town and see the world, but he never has, lest the local rich despot Mr. Potter (Lionel Barrymore, in a role that provided the DNA for The Simpsons' Mr. Burns) take over - all that prevents him from doing so is George and his company. But on Christmas Eve 1946, George's Uncle Billy loses the business' entire $8,000 while intending to deposit it in the bank. When Mr. Potter finds the misplaced money, he hides it. In a pivotal moment of sheer desperation, George wishes he was never born, at which point a bumbling angel named Clarence (he needs to get his wings!) is sent from beyond to show him what his life would look like - without him in it. Also starring Donna Reed and Henry Travers.

"IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE is about hunger. It's about greed. It's about the many ways a good man is stymied. Finally, it's about George Bailey, whose decency prevents him even from killing himself." (Salon)

"This is the all-time great, curl-up-on-the-sofa-with-a-cup-of-tea movie. Not only is it beautifully photographed, but it also contains enough emotional strength to hold your attention for all of its two-hour running time." (Total Film)

"IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE is a pretty wonderful movie." (TIME Magazine)

Sunday, December 22
Doors 6:00 pm | Movie 6:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Tickets on sale December 3 at 10 am

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE (Frank Capra, 1946 / 130 mins / G) After George Bailey wishes he had never been born, an angel is sent to earth to make George's wish come true. George starts to realize how many lives he has changed and impacted, and how they would be different if he was never there.

TOKYO GODFATHERS, the acclaimed holiday classic from master director Satoshi Kon (PAPRIKA, PERFECT BLUE), returns to theaters in a brand-new, 4K restoration.

In modern-day Tokyo, three homeless people’s lives are changed forever when they discover a baby girl at a garbage dump on Christmas Eve. As the New Year fast approaches, these three forgotten members of society band together to solve the mystery of the abandoned child and the fate of her parents. Along the way, encounters with seemingly unrelated events and people force them to confront their own haunted pasts, as they learn to face their future, together.

Co-written by Keiko Nobumoto (COWBOY BEBOP) and featuring a whimsical score by Keiichi Suzuki, TOKYO GODFATHERS is a masterpiece by turns heartfelt, hilarious and highly original, a tale of hope and redemption in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

"Takes anime to a whole new level." (Variety)

“A beautiful, hilarious movie and one that cemented Kon Satoshi as a visionary and narrative master.” (Nerdist)

Monday, December 22
Doors 9:00 pm | Movie 9:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

TOKYO GODFATHERS (Satoshi Kon, 2003 / 92 mins / 18A / Japanese w/EST) Middle-aged alcoholic Gin, teenage runaway Miyuki and former drag queen Hana are a trio of homeless people surviving as a makeshift family on the streets of Tokyo. While rummaging in the trash for food on Christmas Eve, they stumble upon an abandoned newborn baby in a trash bin. With only a handful of clues to the baby's identity, the three misfits search the streets of Tokyo for help in returning the baby to its parents.

"What is it you want, Mary? You want the moon? Just say the word and I'll throw a lasso around it and pull it down.”

Hot Dog! At this time of year, we get inundated with audience requests for the "holiday classic to define all holiday classics,"Frank Capra's IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, and are continuing our tradition of giving it the big viewing it so richly deserves.

For movie-lovers around the world, this bittersweet yet optimistic sentimental comedy drama is as essential a holiday tradition as chestnuts roasting on an open fire. And we couldn't agree more! Beyond its own charming warmth, IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE is one of the most influential fantasy films ever made and one of the most universally adored example of old-school Hollywood. Come on out to dance by the light of the moon and get put under the magic spell (again!) of this transcendent cinematic masterpiece - with the newly restored, big-screen viewing it so richly deserves.

Jimmy Stewart gives one of his all-time best performances as George Bailey, a good man with a big heart. Though George is the guiding force behind the modest local building and loan company he inherited from his own generous father, he is eternally in debt himself, and has spent his entire life giving of himself to the people of Bedford Falls. George has always longed to travel beyond his idyllic small town and see the world, but he never has, lest the local rich despot Mr. Potter (Lionel Barrymore, in a role that provided the DNA for The Simpsons' Mr. Burns) take over - all that prevents him from doing so is George and his company. But on Christmas Eve 1946, George's Uncle Billy loses the business' entire $8,000 while intending to deposit it in the bank. When Mr. Potter finds the misplaced money, he hides it. In a pivotal moment of sheer desperation, George wishes he was never born, at which point a bumbling angel named Clarence (he needs to get his wings!) is sent from beyond to show him what his life would look like - without him in it. Also starring Donna Reed and Henry Travers.

"IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE is about hunger. It's about greed. It's about the many ways a good man is stymied. Finally, it's about George Bailey, whose decency prevents him even from killing himself." (Salon)

"This is the all-time great, curl-up-on-the-sofa-with-a-cup-of-tea movie. Not only is it beautifully photographed, but it also contains enough emotional strength to hold your attention for all of its two-hour running time." (Total Film)

"IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE is a pretty wonderful movie." (TIME Magazine)

Tuesday, December 24
Doors 5:00 pm | Movie 5:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Tickets on sale December 3 at 10 am

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE (Frank Capra, 1946 / 130 mins / G) After George Bailey wishes he had never been born, an angel is sent to earth to make George's wish come true. George starts to realize how many lives he has changed and impacted, and how they would be different if he was never there.

"Yippee ki yay, motherfudger!

Send your movie-loving' self into Christmas overdrive with what is - hands down - one of the absolute biggest, baddest motherfudging edge-of-your-seat big screen thrill rides ever, DIE HARD. In (arguably) his signature performance, Bruce Willis shines as a streetsmart (and mostly barefoot!) cop tasked with outsmarting a group of terrorists who have taken over a building in downtown LA. Also starring the late, great Alan Rickman (Hans Gruber!) and Bonnie Bedelia.

"Its many imitators (and sequels) have never come close to matching the taut thrills of the definitive holiday action classic." (Rotten Tomatoes)

"For all its moments of almost overwhelming cheese, DIE HARD is still the definitive action thriller." (Total Film)

Tuesday, December 24
Doors 8:00 pm | Movie 8:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

DIE HARD (John McTiernan, 1988 / 131 mins / 18A) New York City Detective John McClane has just arrived in Los Angeles to spend Christmas with his wife. Unfortunately, it is not going to be a Merry Christmas for everyone. A group of terrorists, led by Hans Gruber, is holding everyone in the Nakatomi Plaza building hostage – including Mrs. McClane! With no way of anyone getting in or out, it’s up to the street-smart (and barefoot) McClane to stop them all and save the day.

Two young missionary "sisters" are forced to prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a diabolical Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant, in one of the most talked about performances of 2024), becoming ensnared in his deadly game of cat-and-mouse. With Sophie Thatcher, Chloe East.

"There is no way to compete with the all-consuming and utterly mesmerizing performance of heartthrob-turned-unhinged-psychopath Hugh Grant ... He is charming in a grotesque way, like a blueberry pie mottled by maggots." (Seattle Refined)

"A complex debate on the legitimacy of religion that arrives framed in absolutely captivating staging." (Los Angeles Times)

"If 'Heretic' proves nothing else, it’s that creepy, evil Hugh Grant is the best Hugh Grant." (Rolling Stone Magazine)

"Hugh Grant uses his charm for evil in this provocative cat-and-mouse game about the meaning, if any, of religion in a godless modern world. The romcom dreamboat of yore has been replaced by a diabolical presence eager to send us all to hell. What fun." (ABC News)

Thursday, December 26
Doors 6:30 pm | Movie 7:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

HERETIC (Scott Beck & Bryan Woods, 2024 / 111 mins / 14A) Two young missionaries are forced to prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a diabolical Mr. Reed, becoming ensnared in his deadly game of cat-and-mouse.

Teenager Owen is just trying to make it through life in the suburbs when his classmate introduces him to a mysterious late-night TV show — a vision of a supernatural world beneath their own. In the pale glow of the television, Owen’s view of reality begins to crack. With Justice Smith, Brigette Lundy-Paine, Fred Durst, Danielle Deadwyler.

"'Glow' blends the real and the surreal in a neon-drenched nightmare that leaves a trail of thematic breadcrumbs for its audience." (USA Today)

"With all this talk of universal emotions and inherent hope, it is easy to lose track of the fact that I Saw the TV Glow is an unnerving and disarming genre film. It gets under the skin, and is a welcome disruption." (Rue Morgue)

Thursday, December 26
Doors 9:15 pm | Movie 9:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

I SAW THE TV GLOW (Jane Shoenbrun, 2024 / 100 mins / PG) Two teenagers bond over their love of a supernatural TV show, but it is mysteriously cancelled.

The Rio Theatre is thrilled to welcome beloved East Van staple Petunia & The Vipers to our stage for an album release concert in support of their new album, 'Calling Me Back,' on Friday, December 27.

Louis Armstrong was once asked what his favorite kind of music was, and his response was simple; "Good music." Petunia & The Vipers' sound may not sit comfortably in one certain genre, but "Good Music" describes it well.

Friday, December 27
With Special Guests!
Doors 6:30 pm | Show 7:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

General Admission $26.00+ s/c
Date Night (Pair of Tickets) $44.00+ s/c (Available online only)

Hank Williams on acid…
Tom Waits meets Elvis at Woody Guthrie's Hobo junction…
Avante-Country night club scene music…
One of the best bands in the world today, of any kind…
Hillbilly-flavoured-swing inflected-ragtime-goodtime-thunderously rolling-one-of-a-kind-you-don’t-want-to-miss-this-sort-of-a-show…
A new music that springboards off of music of the past and jumps into the present day, left with only echoes of the past…
Something in between 1920's and steam punk. It's good for your mind…

These are just a few of the words uttered by folks around the globe trying to pin down a description of all that is Petunia & The Vipers.

Connect on Instagram @petuniaandthevipers
Connect on Facebbook https://www.facebook.com/PetuniaTheVipers/

This event is brought to you by LIC Entertainment or in partnership with LIC Entertainment.

Silents Synced pairs classic silent movies with epic rock music. Created by an independent cinema owner for independent cinemas! Silents Synced will be available to book exclusively for independents and drive ins only! The first film will feature Radiohead’s “KID A (2000) / Amnesiac (2001),” paired with F. W. Murnau's NOSFERATU (1923).

NOSFERATU X RADIOHEAD is directed and remixed by Josh Frank.

Friday, December 27
Doors 11:00 pm | Movie 11:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Unleashed upon the world in 1922, German filmmaker F.W. Murnau's NOSFERATU is most certainly the most important horror film of the silent era, and one of the first vampire movies. The fact that it exists at all is something of a miracle, as it was almost completely lost when Bram Stoker's widow sued the filmmakers for copyright infringement, and most of the prints of the movie were subsequently destroyed.

NOSFERATU tells the story of Hutter and Ellen, a couple from the village of Wisborg. Hutter travels to Transylvania to sell a piece of property in Wisborg to Count Orlok. Hutter stays in Orlok’s castle only to learn that the Count is a vampire. Orlok purchases a house next to Hutter’s, locks Hutter in the castle and travels to Wisborg. On the way, he manages to possess Hutter’s employer and Ellen and strike the village with an outbreak of the plague. Hutter rushes home to stop him before it’s too late.

"The [Silents Synced] project is the brainchild of Josh Frank, who has written plays and books about music, as well as owning and programming independent movie theaters in Austin, Texas. “This is the culmination of everything I’ve been involved with creatively,” he says. “The theme here is what else can you do with your favorite music? It’s about the theatrics of putting on a show for people and using what I’m passionate about, which is music and experimenting with narrative.”

Frank, who equates the experience to him seeing the Pink Floyd Laser Light Show as a teen, loves the movies but is driven at least equally by his passion for music. “When I find the right album that pairs with the movie, something magical [happens] that creates a whole new context for the music and for the movie,” he says. “This music you’ve been listening to for 20 years, you suddenly have the same excitement the first time you heard it. When I put Radiohead up against ‘Nosferatu,’ there were many moments throughout where I got goosebumps.” (Los Angeles Times)

Two young missionary "sisters" are forced to prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a diabolical Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant, in one of the most talked about performances of 2024), becoming ensnared in his deadly game of cat-and-mouse. With Sophie Thatcher, Chloe East.

"There is no way to compete with the all-consuming and utterly mesmerizing performance of heartthrob-turned-unhinged-psychopath Hugh Grant ... He is charming in a grotesque way, like a blueberry pie mottled by maggots." (Seattle Refined)

"Hugh Grant uses his charm for evil in this provocative cat-and-mouse game about the meaning, if any, of religion in a godless modern world. The romcom dreamboat of yore has been replaced by a diabolical presence eager to send us all to hell. What fun." (ABC News)

Saturday, December 28
Doors 4:30 pm | Movie 5:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

HERETIC (Scott Beck & Bryan Woods, 2024 / 111 mins / 14A) Two young missionaries are forced to prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a diabolical Mr. Reed, becoming ensnared in his deadly game of cat-and-mouse.

A standout selection from the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE is a dark fairy tale about one woman's search for tenderness and morality in a cruel world. Both eerie and exquisite, writer-director Magnus von Horn's latest film tracks young factory worker Karoline as she struggles to survive in post-WWI Copenhagen. When she ends up unemployed, abandoned and pregnant, the charismatic Dagmar takes her in to help run an underground adoption agency for unwanted children. The two women form an unexpected bond, until a sudden revelation changes everything.

Based on a chilling true story, THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE presents a masterful gothic vision with profound contemporary resonance. Denmark's Best International Feature Film entry to the 97th Academy Awards, it is currently nominated for a Golden Globe Award (in the same category). Featuring gorgeous cinematography by EO's Michał Dymek and a spellbinding score by Frederikke Hoffmeier (Puce Mary). With Vic Carmen Sonne, Trine Dyrholm, Besir Zeciri.

"'The Girl With the Needle' is most intriguing when it lingers in its disturbing fictions, which come to life with exceptional style." (New York Times)

"A harrowing and eerie horror fairy tale from another time, even as it feels startlingly fresh and always unpredictable." (Los Angeles Times)

Saturday, December 28
Doors 7:15 pm | Movie 7:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE "Pigen med nålen" (Magnus von Horn, 2024 / 122 mins / In Danish w/EST) Struggling to survive in post-WWI Copenhagen, a newly unemployed and pregnant young woman is taken in by a charismatic elder to help run an underground adoption agency. The two form an unexpected bond, until a sudden discovery changes everything.

"Wendy, I'm home!"

Join us at the Rio Theatre dim the lights and get scared with some classic winter terror, courtesy of Stanley Kubrick's cinematic masterpiece, THE SHiNiNG.

Based on Stephen King's 1977 novel "The Shining," Stanley Kubrick's film is widely regarded as a work of true cinematic genius (although King himself, famously, does not).  Jack Nicholson and the late, great Shelley Duvall star as a husband and wife (Jack and Wendy Torrance) who ditch the city for a gig as winter caretakers at an isolated hotel. While Jack hopes to get his creative juices flowing so that he can write a book, the family (which also includes their young son Danny) instead encounters an eerie and foreboding spiritual presence. Commence cinema's most nightmarishly creepy twins, a mesmerizing carpet, the memorable view from Room 237, a messy elevator, REDRUM, psychic visions, a Big Wheel that keeps on turnin', and a chaotic descent into a spiraling maze of violence. Also starring Danny Lloyd and Scatman Crothers.

Of note: This particular edition of THE SHiNiNG was remastered in 2019 for the film's 40th Anniversary, using a new 4K scan of the original 35mm camera negative at Warner Bros. Motion Picture Imaging. The color grading was done by Janet Wilson with supervision from Kubrick’s former personal assistant, Leon Vitali.

"The Gothic heroine, the woman trapped in the menacing haunted home, must exhibit courage in the face of danger, remaining resolute while also being susceptible to the evil that lurks around every corner. Without that tension, we wouldn’t be kept in suspense. In the film, Duvall is waifish, eyes wide, hair flat and scraggly, and it’s hard not to believe she’s going to die. Her only objective is to save her son, Danny, from his father, who — we learn early on — previously broke Danny’s arm in an alcoholic rage. This evil she is fighting is malevolent and abusive and real, a threat she has seen in action before, only now it carries an ax.

But plenty able to scream. Speaking with the critic Roger Ebert in 1980, Duvall revealed nuanced feelings about the shoot, likening the experience to primal scream therapy. “In my character I had to cry 12 hours a day, all day long, the last nine months straight, five or six days a week,” she explained. But “I went home very contented,” she added. “It had a very calming effect. During the day I would have been absolutely miserable.” (New York Times)

Saturday, December 28
Doors 9:30 pm | Movie 10:00 pm *Please arrive on time. Start time subject to change.

THE SHINING (Stanley Kubrick, 1980 / 144 mins / 14A) Jack Torrance becomes winter caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel in Colorado, hoping to cure his writer's block. He settles in along with his wife, Wendy, and his son, Danny (Danny Lloyd), who is plagued by psychic premonitions. As Jack's writing goes nowhere and Danny's visions become more disturbing, Jack discovers the hotel's dark secrets and begins to unravel into a homicidal maniac hell-bent on terrorizing his family.

In a small coastal town, where the lives of the residents revolve around the sea, the livelihood of a poor man's family is entirely dependent on fishing. However, their peaceful existence is shattered when a dark shadow of evil, driven by greed and malice, threatens the life of his family. Who shall rise to vanquish the forces of inequity and safeguard the unwavering flame of faith? Starring: Arjun Kapikad, Sushmitha Bhat, Gopinath Bhat, Manasi Sudhir, Jyothish Shetty, Vijay Shobharaj Pavoor and Shlagha Saligrama.

Kaljiga is an exciting story that takes place after the shadow of adharma falls on the path of religion. Written & Directed by Suman Suvarna. The film has music-lyrics by Hamsalekha, cinematography by Sachin Shetty, background music by Prasad K Shetty and editing by Yashwin K Shettigar. Sanil Guru of Kantara fame acted as the creative head.

Canada release by Hejjenu Media

Sunday, December 29
Door: 12:15 pm | Film: 12:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time. 

General Admission $15+ s/c
Youth & Seniors $10+ s/c
Kids 5 and under get in FREE!

Please note this film screens in KANNADA with English subtitles. There will be NO intermission with this screening. Please do not bring confetti or torn up newspaper to the theatre.

KALJIGA (Suman Savarna | 2024 | 114 mins | Kannada w. EST) In a small coastal town, where the lives of the residents revolve around the sea, the livelihood of a poor man's family is entirely dependent on fishing. However, their peaceful existence is shattered when a dark shadow of evil, driven by greed and malice, threatens the life of his family.

Nuns, lonely goat herds, Christopher Plummer, raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens are just a few of the things that makes Robert Wise's classic THE SOUND OF MUSIC one of our favourite things!

Join us at the Rio Theatre for an all-ages-welcome showing of one of the most hand-down beloved big-screen musicals of all time - just in time for the holidays. Feel free to come dressed in your favourite lederhosen and get ready to sing, laugh, and be filled up on good cheer.

Based on the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical that was inspired by the true story of the Trapp Family Singers, who fled Austria amid growing concerns over Nazi rule, THE SOUND OF MUSIC stars Julie Andrews as Maria, a young "problematic" nun (who needs solving) in a convent who regularly misses her morning prayers because she'd rather head into going to the lively hills to sing. Mother Superior feels that Maria needs to learn something more about the real world before she can take her vows, and sends her off to be the new governess to the many children of the widowed Captain Von Trapp (Christopher Plummer). When Maria arrives at their home, she discovers the Captain to be a cold, aloof, and rather stern disciplinarian. When Father is around, the children are quick to fall in line, but left to their own devices are far more rambunctious and Maria has to come up with creative ways to earn their respect. The children soon become entranced with the playful and sweet governess, whose style is completely at odds with that of their father. As the natural tension between Maria and the Captain blossoms into a palpable chemistry, complicated by the fact that the he is already engaged...

Sunday, December 29
Doors 3:00 pm | Movie 3:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

THE SOUND OF MUSIC (Robert Wise, 1965 / 174 mins / G) A woman leaves an Austrian convent to become a governess to the children of a Naval officer widower.

Come spend New Years Eve with Vancouver's Funnest, longest running Variety Show! A night of comedy, music, dance and ridiculous fun. Stick around for a late night video dance party and the ball drop!

Tuesday, December 31
Doors 8:00 pm | Show 9:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Early Bird General Admission $30+ s/c (Until December 24)
Early Bird VIP $40+ s/c (Until December 24)
General Admission $35+ s/c
VIP $45+ s/c
VIP Tickets: Priority Seating, Commemorative VIP button, our deepest respect, party favours, the honour of being gently roasted, a greater chance of survival, and champagne!

- FUTURISTIC MUSICAL GENIUS: McRORIE!!
Featuring the return of this unique electronic one-man band McRORIE!! The guy even has a homemade exoskeleton that creates percussion when he moves! Part inventor, part entertainer…when he plays a cover of a song you like, you will hear it in a brand new way. We just couldn't imagine doing New Years Eve without him SO WE AREN'T. He even has some new covers to WOW you with. What a party!!

- MESMERIZING TWIN VIOLINISTS: AUDREY & ASHLYN!!
These twins are exceptionally talented with a deep passion for music. Both of them have achieved Grade 10 certification in piano and have reached an advanced level in violin, reflecting their dedication and love for music. They were honored to appear in a renowned Hollywood film! Their synchronized violin duet combines technical mastery and emotional expression, promising to bring a memorable and inspiring performance to the stage.

- ENTERTAINER: PARTY PAL!
Party Pal provides balloon-twisting, magic, science experiments, puppeteering and funny ukulele songs for children's (of any age) parties. We are all kids at heart, so let's party like we're all tiny!

3 more acts to be announcing soon...

We will be finding new ways to celebrate midnight in every time zone with video feeds to correspondents in Toronto, Winnipeg, Calgary and finally the big one, live in Vancouver with our version of the Time Square Ball Drop!

After the variety show there will be a Much Music style Video Dance Party with VJ’s Paul Anthony & Ryan Beil spinning fun danceable music videos on the big screen! The Sacred Shredder will be on hand to rid yourself of whatever you wish to leave in 2024. Plus various roaming entertainment, games to play and other activities. Come ring in the new year with us!

“There is no funner night out... you have to experience it." (The Georgia Straight)

"'Talent Time' is the most innovative, raucus, totally silly and inspired show I have seen in years. Watching it is like freebasing sheer fun!" (The Globe & Mail)

Let’s do the Time Warp… Again!

But for the first time in 2025! Why keep our fans waiting with such devoted antici--

There's no better way to set the tone of survival for whatever madness the new year may throw our way than with the cult classic, rock movie musical and audience favourite, THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW! There's absolutely no better time to see and experience this pop-culture landmark than the the way it is meant to be seen – on the big screen, in the dark, and with a raucous Rio Theatre audience who are just as into it as you are.

Whether you’re a Virgin or a veteran, you’ll have a blast!

Even better? Joyful chaos creature and the Rio's own legendary host, DANDY, will be on-hand to guide the Virgins (and veterans!) through all the do's-and-don'ts of this monumentally experiential cinematic phenomenon.

As always, costumes and audience participation are highly encouraged - because costume contest! (In other words: Prizes! Here's your chance to go all out and let your freak flag fly, people.) The ticket price includes a fun prop bag, too!

Your own props are also very welcome, but please – whatever you do – DO NOT BRING RICE OR CONFETTI!

Friday, January 3 
Doors 10:30 pm | Event 11:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

But WAIT, there's MORE! - Friday Late Night makes it 2 for 1 Creature night as well! --pation!

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW (Jim Sharman, 1975 | (100 mins, PG) | A newly engaged couple (Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick) have a breakdown in an isolated area and must pay a call to the bizarre residence of Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry).

Because botox looks better on the big screen!

Join us at the Rio Theatre on Sunday, January 5 for our annual Golden Globe Awards watch party. This year's event is being hosted by the very funny Nikki Glaser, which pretty much guarantees a night of hilarity.

The Golden Globe Awards recognizes the best and brightest in film and television (double the entertainment value!) , as selected by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association.

Our Golden Globes screening and party is a fun warm-up for the Oscars, which will also be shown live and on our big screen on Sunday, March 2. As always, we will roll out the red carpet and encourage everyone to dress up like the star that they are.

Sunday, January 5
Doors 4:00 pm | Show 5:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Early Bird Tickets just $5 until December 31!

General Admission $10

Reserve your seat today!

"In 9 hours and 23 minutes... You'll be mine."

The late, great David Bowie makes all kinds of music, magic and mischief as a Goblin King who kidnaps a baby while tormenting a young Jennifer Connelly in director Jim Henson's wildly imaginative and highly entertaining puppet-filled 80s classic LABYRINTH. We're tipping our hat to the beloved icon with a prime time, tribute screening on Wednesday, January 8 his birthday!

Fifteen-year-old Sarah (Connelly) resents her baby brother Toby and secretly wishes that he will just disappear. Whilst babysitting Toby, Sarah's wish comes true when goblins kidnap the baby. Feeling responsible and guilty about his abduction, she sets forth to retrieve him - and finds herself on the adventure of a lifetime. To rescue her brother, she must sneak into the castle of the Goblin King (Bowie), which is in the center of a fantastical labyrinth. The task is easier said than done, as the maze is filled with strange creatures, mind-bending puzzles, and nothing is really as it seems...

"A remarkable achievement." (The New York Times)

"One of the undeniable triumphs of pure fantasy in live-action cinema." (Antagony & Ecstasy)

Wednesday, January 8
Doors 6:00 pm | Movie 6:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

LABYRINTH (Jim Henson, 1986 / 101 mins / PG) | Frustrated with babysitting on yet another weekend night, Sarah - a teenager with an active imagination - summons the Goblins from her favourite book, "Labyrinth", to take the baby stepbrother away. When little Toby actually disappears, Sarah must follow him into the world of the fairytale to rescue him from the Goblin King...

It's The Allusionist podcast's tenth birthday! Celebrate with host Helen Zaltzman and house band Martin Austwick at a special performance of the new live show, Souvenirs, about friendship breakups, fonts, and the history of ass. Because it's a birthday party, BYO party hat. 

The Allusionist is a podcast about language: how and why we humans use it the ways we do, the funny and frustrating ways it shapes our words, thoughts, and lives - and how, just when we think we can tame it and ride it around, like a rodeo beast, it throws us defiantly into the sawdust.

Called “one of the funniest and most educational podcasts around” by The Guardian and “linguistically zesty“ by The New Yorker, The Allusionist has previously made hit stage shows about speed-typing champions, protest cakes and the history of the word ‘Ms’. Now celebrating its tenth year, the Allusionist presents a brand live show, Souvenirs, telling the story of a friendship torn apart by… a font. A font? Look, font-related emotions can get VERY heated.

“The Allusionist, a podcast about the English language, is an absolute delight. Host Helen Zaltzman is prone to going down fascinating etymological wormholes, uncovering the history behind certain turns of phrase.” - Refinery29

“Helen Zaltzman is a podcast pioneer... It’s a podcast about words, but don’t expect a dry lecture on etymology: instead, our host uses all the irreverence and creativity at her disposal to make her linguistic forays into subjects such as planet-naming, food branding and the name Tiffany as fascinating as possible.” - The Guardian

Sunday, January 12
Doors 1:00 PM | Event 2:00 PM *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Tickets $25 + s/c
Students (with ID) & Kids (15 under) $18 + s/c
Group of 4 (online only) $20 each + s/c

Early bird tickets just $20 + s/c - Available until Dec 15!

*Kids aged 10+ are welcome, but the show does contain some Strong Language (in an educational context!) so parental discretion is advised. 

Helen Zaltzman is a multiple award-winning podcast host and producer. Her linguistics podcast The Allusionist has won multiple awards and the live theatrical spin-off has appeared on stages around the world. Answer Me This, the comedy show she co-founded with Olly Mann in 2007, was one of Britain's most beloved and successful independent podcasts, running for 400 episodes and nearly 15 years. In her podcast Veronica Mars Investigations with Jenny Owen Youngs, she recapped the entirety of the TV show Veronica Mars, plus two versions of Pride and Prejudice. She has appeared regularly on Radios 2, 4 and 5 Live, as well as on podcasts including The Bugle, Bullseye, Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness, 99% Invisible, The Sporkful, Ologies, The Infinite Monkey Cage, No Such Thing as a Fish, Buffering the Vampire Slayer, and many more. She has co-written two toilet books which have almost certainly been pulped by now.

Martin Austwick is a podcaster, musician and singer-songwriter, and has released albums as Pale Bird. He has performed music live for Answer Me This!, The Allusionist, 99% Invisible, The Bugle, and Radiotopia Live, and has created music for literally tons of podcasts. He also co-created the podcasts Neutrinowatch and Song by Song.

Allusionist Socials:
Website: theallusionist.org
Facebook: facebook.com/AllusionistShow/
Twitter: twitter.com/AllusionistShow
Instagram: instagram.com/Allusionistshow
YouTube: youtube.com/allusionistshow 

Join us at the Rio Theatre for the Canadian Theatrical Premiere for an epic screening of Stephen King's 1994 series THE STAND - all four episodes, back-to-back and in their entirety. We highly recommend you dress in something comfy, you're gonna be here awhile

Even better? Director Mick Garris will be joining us LIVE for Q&A!

Please note the complete runtime of The Stand is 6 hours not including several short brief intermissions and time for the Q&A. Ticketed patrons may come and go as they please, provided they do not disturb others. Our concession, bar and grills will remain open during the entire event.

Sunday, January 19
Doors 12:15 pm | Event 1:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.*

Tickets $25 | $30 at the door

One of the UK’s biggest stand-ups brings his arena-filling Hustle tour to North America -with a stop at the Rio Theatre on Monday, January 20!

Romesh is the star of his worldwide Netflix stand-up special Romesh Ranganathan: The Cynic, as well as a string of UK television hits, including BBC’s Asian Provocateur, BBC’s The Ranganathan, Sky’s A League Of Their Own and BBC’s Avoidance. He fronted the Showtime show Just Another Immigrant in 2018, documenting his attempts to sell out a show at LA’s famous Greek Theatre; and has appeared twice on the Late Late Show.

Presented by Show And Tell with Off The Kerb

Monday, January 20
Doors 6:15 pm | Show 7:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Balcony (General Admission) $50+ s/c

Main Floor (Assigned) $60+ s/c

VIP (Rows A-F, Centre Section) $70+ s/c

All tickets on sale September 6 at 9:00 am PST

Connect with Romesh:
www.romeshranganathan.com
www.instagram.com/romeshranga/
https://www.tiktok.com/@romeshranga

One of the UK’s biggest stand-ups brings his arena-filling Hustle tour to North America -with a stop at the Rio Theatre on Monday, January 20!

Romesh is the star of his worldwide Netflix stand-up special Romesh Ranganathan: The Cynic, as well as a string of UK television hits, including BBC’s Asian Provocateur, BBC’s The Ranganathan, Sky’s A League Of Their Own and BBC’s Avoidance. He fronted the Showtime show Just Another Immigrant in 2018, documenting his attempts to sell out a show at LA’s famous Greek Theatre; and has appeared twice on the Late Late Show.

Presented by Show And Tell with Off The Kerb

Monday, January 20
Doors 9:00 pm | Show 9:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Balcony (General Admission) $50+ s/c
Main Floor (Assigned) $60+ s/c
VIP (Rows A-F, Centre Section) $70+ s/c

Connect with Romesh:
www.romeshranganathan.com
www.instagram.com/romeshranga/
https://www.tiktok.com/@romeshranga

Come enjoy an evening at the Rio Theatre with The Allmost Brothers, Canada’s premier Allman Brothers Tribute. Formed in 2017, Allmost Brothers emerged as a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Allman Brothers Band in the wake of the passing of founding members Butch Trucks and Gregg Allman. What began as a one-time performance has blossomed into one of Canada’s most electrifying tribute acts, captivating audiences with their soulful renditions of classic Southern rock.

Sunday, January 26 TWO sets!
Doors 7:00 pm | Event 7:30 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Advance tickets $25+ s/c | $30+ s/c at the door

Drawing inspiration from the Allman Brothers' extensive catalog, Allmost Brothers seamlessly weave together fan favorites such as "Ramblin' Man," "Jessica," "One Way Out," and "Whipping Post." Their performances are characterized by infectious energy and passion, creating an immersive experience that resonates with music lovers of all ages. While rooted in the Allman Brothers' legacy, the band also pays homage to influential acts like Derek and the Dominos, Tedeschi Trucks, and Gov't Mule, enriching their repertoire with a diverse selection of iconic songs.

Allmost Brothers pride themselves on their ability to connect with audiences, transcending the label of a typical tribute band. Their performances often include original compositions and playful teases of classic tracks from other legendary musicians, ensuring that each show is a unique celebration of Southern rock's rich heritage. As they continue to perform at festivals and venues across the
region, Allmost Brothers remain dedicated to honoring the spirit of the Allman Brothers Band while carving out their own identity in the music scene. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the genre, experiencing Allmost Brothers live guarantees an unforgettable journey through the sounds that defined a generation.

Drag Attack is BACK! And this time we're serving New Year, Same Me.

Join award-winning host and social media superstar Dandy at his award-winning show Drag Attack: Resolutions. It's 2025, so embrace the chaos! While the world crumbles around us, and YVR airport sinks into the ocean, there's only one certainty, you're in for a night of fun, frenzy and frivolity.

Dress in your New Years Best, grab a beverage at the infamous Rio bar, and see the show featuring the best drag artists in Vancouver on the biggest stage the city has to offer. Every performer is bringing their New Year's Resolution to a show that celebrates our future. Bolder, Stronger, and a little bit Gayer!

"I didn't know that that's exactly what I wanted." (Straight People)

Join the sensation Georgia Straight readers voted runner up to BEST OF VANCOUVER 2023.

Friday, January 31 - 2025
Doors 7:00 pm | Event 8:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Early Bird tickets just $24 + s/c available until the final stroke of midnight, on the last day of the year, Dec 31, '24!

Main Floor Assigned $30 + s/c | $35+ s/c at the door
VIP – First 4 rows $40 + s/c | $45+ s/c at the door **VIP ticket holders also get an interactive prop bag to be used during the show!**

The Drag Attack 4 Pack $100 + s/c (Available online only)

Cast list and info coming soon!

About your Host:

Dandy (he/him) is the award-winning host made popular on TikTok for his viral videos promoting queer joy! Winner of Host of the Year 2024 for Vancouver International Burlesque Festival and awarded runner up in the Georgia Straight’s BEST OF VANCOUVER for his show Drag Attack! – you can catch him regularly on stage in his shows at the iconic Rio Theatre in Vancouver, or touring regularly this year between LA and New York City. His all new series Dandyland, which highlights businesses, organizations, and artists in the lower-mainland’s LGBT Community, premiered this Summer on Optik TV

@dandyandfriends

Because our screen is bigger.
Waaaaaaaay bigger.
That's why.

Enjoy the ultimate game day experience on Sunday, February 9 at our annual (not to mention FREE!) Super Bowl LIX screening and party at the Rio Theatre. Featuring half time show headliner Kendrick Lamar.

Trivia!
Prizes!!
Football!!!

Come early to get yourself a great seat, grab a bevvie and grilled cheese sammie and catch up on all the stats with televised pre-show commentary. Our lobby and concession will be open during the entire event serving up fresh, buttered popcorn and adult libations including our line-up of Persephone draft beers, get one as part of our Big Kid Combo. Not drinking? No problem, try a non-alcoholic Edna's Mojito or Street Legal non-alcohol beer and of course a full range of soft drinks.

Sunday, February 9
Super Bowl LIX
Doors 3:00 pm | Kickoff 3:30 pm *Start time subject to change. 

Entry is FREE at the door on game day but as our viewing parties tend to fill up fast why not ensure entry and seats and RSVP in advance for only $5

Show And Tell present
SARAH KEYWORTH: MY EYES ARE UP HERE

UK stand-up star Sarah Keyworth makes their North American tour debut, bringing their smash-hit show to the Rio Theatre on March 18.

"My Eyes Are Up Here" is one of the most talked about stand-up shows of the last year, racking up a string of awards and selling out theaters all across their native UK, and Australia.

Tuesday, March 18
Doors 6:15 pm | Show 7:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Balcony (GA) $40+ s/c
Main Floor (Assigned) $50+ s/c
VIP (Rows A-E, centre section) $60+ s/c

‘Achingly funny’- The Herald ★★★★★

‘Gales of laughter’ – The Guardian ★★★★

‘Utterly engaging’ The Telegraph ★★★★

Sarah has appeared on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, 8 Out of 10 Cats, ITV's The Stand Up Sketch Show and Comedy Central's Roast Battle. Their BBC Radio 4 show Are You A Boy or A Girl is available to stream on BBC Sounds and their Prime Special Dark Horse is streaming on Prime TV.

Winner of the Most Outstanding Show at Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2024, the International New Faces of Comedy at Just For Laughs Festival 2023.

Guest star on Off Menu and The Guilty Feminist podcasts.

Community Trail Running presents:
The Trail Running Film Festival 2025

After a great debut in 2023, and an even better follow-up in 2024, the Trail Running Film Festival is back on tour in 2025 and coming to Vancouver once again! Expect another amazing evening of films, inspiration, and community.

Come and help us celebrate our incredible sport as we explore individual and collective potential. The festival will also have a 50/50 in support of BC AdventureSmart and include prizes and giveaways to add to our celebration!

We’re excited to bring you stories from around the world by filmmakers sharing their work of adventure, inclusivity, wilderness, art, and diversity across the trail and ultra community. Trail running is awesome and so is this film festival!

Thursday, April 3
Doors 6:00 pm | Event 7:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Early Bird Tickets (December 1-31) $25+ s/c
Tickets $30+ s/c | $35+ s/c at the door
Squad Pass Group Pricing (Group of Four) $100+ s/c (Available online only)

Tickets on sale December 1

You’ve watched his clips on Instagram, you’ve shared his standup with your friends and family on TikTok, now it’s time to see Jarlath Regan’s funny bits live - and in person. The brand new standup show from the man behind some of the most hilarious viral standup comedy clips is finally here! After selling out every single seat on his “Yer Man” tour in 2024, Jarlath is on the road again and travelling around the world with a completely fresh, never before seen standup comedy show guaranteed to have you “In Bits”.

Friday, April 11
Doors 6:00 pm | Show 7:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Advance tickets $42+ s/c

Artist Pre-Sale - Thursday, September 12 10:00 am
General On Sale - Friday, September 13 10:00 am

“The jewel in the Irish comedy crown.” (The Examiner)

“Universally enjoyable – 90 minutes of jaw-achingly funny anecdotes which spanned every topic
imaginable.” (The Post)

“A subtle yet sublime helping of observational wit” (The Herald ★★★★★)

“Downright hilarious…comedy genius” (The Irish Times ★★★★)

“Had the audience shaking so violently with laughter they probably could have charged their phones” (Edinburgh Festivals Magazine)

“Regan is an expert storyteller and this is a beautifully constructed show that I could have happily
listened to for twice its length.” (★★★★ The Arts Desk)

This Rio Theatre gift certificate is good for entry to any single regular screening and includes one medium popcorn, one medium fountain beverage, and one small candy.

You’ve watched his clips on Instagram, you’ve shared his standup with your friends and loved ones, now it’s time to see Manhar Seth’s poetic bits live and in-person.

Manhar Seth is one of the most viral and sensational figures on Instagram known for his unique fusion of poetry (shayari) and comedy. He has captivated audiences with his remarkable ability to blend heartfelt shayari with humor creating a refreshing and relatable experience for fans across the globe. Manhar doesn’t just perform on stage—he connects with his audience through interactive crowdwork making each show a dynamic and personal experience.

With a strong fanbase of 2 Million Followers that spans across India and internationally he has toured over 45 cities in his home country and garnered overwhelming responses during his recent tours in Dubai and the UK. His Canada tour is already generating huge excitement with pre-sale registrations amassing around 500 responses and early ticket sales estimated at 1500 tickets across multiple cities.

Presented by Reality Entertainment

Friday, May 2
Doors: 6:30 pm | Show: 7:30 pm
Language: English, Hindi | Age: 16+

Early Bird Ticket Pricing! (Limited Number Available)

VIP (Rows A & B) $45+ s/c
Main Floors (Assigned Seating) $35+ s/c
Balcony (General Admission):$25+s/c

For Group Bookings & Sponsorships:
Reality Ent - (639) 999 0390
ContactRealityEntertainment@gmail.com

This Rio Theatre gift certificate is good for entry to any single regular film screening.

This Rio Theatre gift certificate is good for entry to any single regular screening and includes two medium drinks, and one large popcorn.