VANCOUVER–  New Democrat MLA Jenny Kwan joined Rio Theatre owner Corrine Lea today to support the theatre continuing as a multi-purpose entertainment venue with a mix of alcohol-free movie screenings and licensed live events.Numerous community groups also came to show their support for a venue that they say is vital to their existence.

The Rio’s successful application for a liquor primary license has resulted in programming restrictions, applied by the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch under the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. The Rio is now being forced to choose between offering licensed, live entertainment and alcohol-free movie screenings.

“The Rio is one of Vancouver’s last independent multi-purpose venue theatres that has pioneered a multi-purpose model that blends live entertainment, first and second run movie screenings, and community events,” said Kwan, the MLA for Vancouver-Mount Pleasant. “In seeking city approval for a liquor license, the Rio has undergone an extensive community consultation and the support has been clear: our neighbourhood and Vancouver’s broader creative community are standing behind the Rio theatre.”

In an open letter to Minister Shirley Bond, Kwan urged the minister to find a solution that would allow the Rio to continue to operate successfully.

“There is no question that the creative arts are a key economic driver across our province and our community of Vancouver Mount Pleasant is no different,” wrote Kwan. “The Rio has quickly become a cornerstone of Vancouver’s creative economy. They have been very patient and cooperative through the long application process and it is critical to act quickly in order for this business to survive.”

Link to letter: http://j.mp/JKwanRio 

Jenny Kwan

Vancouver-Mount Pleasant

Jenny Kwan was first elected as the MLA for Vancouver - Mount Pleasant in 1996, becoming one of the first Chinese-Canadians to sit in BC's L