Brief
Selkirk's Garry Theatre Reopens After Renovation, Mayor Praises New Venue
The Garry Theatre in Selkirk reopened after a multi‑year renovation funded by the city and province, with plans for movies and live events.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Selkirk’s sole cinema, the Garry Theatre, reopened this weekend after a $1.8 million renovation funded jointly by the city and the provincial government, Winnipeg Free Press reported.
What happened
The theatre, closed since 2021 when Landmark Cinemas withdrew, held a ribbon‑cutting ceremony and announced its transition to a non‑profit charity. New features include upgraded flooring, bathrooms, lighting, sound equipment and a fossil‑fuel‑free air‑source heat pump. The stage was extended by 2.5 metres to host live performances. The single‑screen venue seats 248 patrons.
What the reports add
The article notes that eight staff members will initially operate the theatre, with 70 volunteers signed up and about 30 more expressing interest via email. The city has earmarked $70,000 per year for the next three years to support the non‑profit, and an endowment fund has also been created. Despite the celebrations, the digital movie download system is not yet functional, and officials said the public opening is "days away."
What was said
Mayor Larry Johannson called the reopening "fantastic" and said, "The sky’s the limit," according to Winnipeg Free Press. Chief Administrative Officer Duane Nicol described the project as "a new theatre in an old shell," adding that the space offers "so much potential" for youth inspiration and daily events ranging from seminars to comedy.
How it came about
The Garry Theatre’s closure in 2021 was attributed to economic concerns by Landmark Cinemas. Subsequent investment from Selkirk and the provincial government, supplemented by private sponsorships and donations, funded the extensive upgrades. The theatre’s revival follows a broader trend of Canadian venue refurbishments, such as the State Theatre reopening in Melbourne earlier this month.
Key facts
- The Garry Theatre reopened after a $1.8 million renovation funded by Selkirk and the provincial government. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- The venue now operates as a non‑profit charity with a 248‑seat single screen. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- Mayor Larry Johannson described the reopening as "fantastic" and "the sky’s the limit." (winnipegfreepress.com)
- Chief Administrative Officer Duane Nicol said the theatre is "a new theatre in an old shell" and highlighted its potential for youth and community events. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- The city allocated $70,000 annually for three years to support the theatre’s operations. (winnipegfreepress.com)
Sources
- [1] winnipegfreepress.com — originally reported as “Movie theatre reopening generates excitement in Selkirk”
