Curtain call: Lacombe's only cinema set to close next month
The only cinema in Lacombe, Alberta, is set to close after the building was sold to a developer who does not intend to operate a theatre. The closure has sparked community disappointment, as the venue served as a local hub for social gatherings and youth activities.
Why it matters
The loss of the cinema highlights the challenges small-town businesses face against real estate development and changing economic landscapes.
News of the movie theatre’s closure has prompted disappointment in the city of nearly 15,000, which is located about 125 kilometres south of Edmonton.
“[The theatre’s Facebook post about the closure has] been flooded, I think we've gotten 100 comments,” Emily Landry, supervisor of Lacombe City Cinemas, said as she recounted what happened when she posted on social media about the closure.
“I've had people come into this business saying that they're praying for us and that they love us so much and they're sad to see us go.
The cinema was known for giving back to the community and hospitality through fundraisers to organizations like STARS and donating to local sports teams, locals told CBC News.
Janice Townend lives near Lacombe and told CBC she thinks the closure is significant.
“[The cinema is where we] did birthday parties." said Townend.
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