We’re closing out 2025 with some inspiring news of rebirth and indie cinema growth! In Port Alberni on Vancouver Island, BC, the Savoy Theatre has entered a powerful new chapter under the stewardship of the Canadian Mental Health Association – Port Alberni (CMHA-PA).
Formerly operated by national chain Landmark Cinemas, the Savoy is now a community-run, single-screen cinema with a clear purpose: preserving the only movie theatre in town and using the shared experience of film as a force for connection and positive mental health. With the next closest cinema an hour’s drive away, CMHA-PA recognized the Savoy as both a cultural lifeline and a meaningful social enterprise.
Since reopening this fall, the team has leaned into what makes small-town cinemas special: thoughtful programming, creative presentation and a deep sense of local pride. From a buzz-filled opening night with Taylor Swift: Life of a Showgirl to themed screenings that turn major releases into uniquely Port Alberni experiences, the Savoy is quickly reclaiming its place as a beloved gathering space.
With plans to expand into live events, gaming and community-driven programming, the Savoy is an exciting project full of promise. Here at NICE, we are so proud to celebrate this innovative and community-focused cinema revival. Onwards to 2026!
Tell us why you decided to take on the Savoy:
To preserve the only screen in our community. The next closest cinema is 60 minutes by car. We regard the movie theatre experience as a positive influence on mental health by providing an incentive against isolation at home and be entertained at the same time. The hope is that the Savoy will also provide a positive cash flow to support community programs run by the Canadian Mental Health Association – Port Alberni (CMHA-PA).
What are your aspirations for the Savoy?
We hope to expand the entertainment offerings to include live performance of music, speakers series and pay per view. With the possible addition of a gaming cafe, we want to position the Savoy as a community hub for positive mental health experiences and the building of supportive relationships.
What sort of films do you show?
First run Hollywood and film festivals (rentals by community groups).
What are the Savoy’s greatest challenges?
Our greatest challenge is giving the theatre back to the community, in the philosophical sense. We want people to feel a sense of pride to the theatre as a part of their community which they are also emotionally invested in. Of course, as a single screen we face the same economic challenges as every member of the NICE community. It’s all a gamble, but on paper it looked like there was a reasonable chance of success. But in the end, “All the world’s a stage and we are merely players”
What’s a memorable film screening or event you hosted?
We have been open since October 3. Our opening show was Taylor Swift – Life of A Showgirl, on release date. This sent a well-received message to the public that the theatre was here to stay and it would be responsive to their interests.
Wicked was also memorable as we decorated and made the experience unique to our town instead of a generic corporate commercial presentation.
What are your most popular concession items?
POPCORN! Eat in, take out, delivery.
What projects are you considering for the future?
Remodel of the original caretaker’s rooms into a gaming cafe/lounge. This will operate as both a separate attraction and as a space to decompress post show. Possibly offering curated discussion groups for the cinephiles out there. To get local businesses involved by hosting team building events tailored to their needs. Cultural events that reflect the community in Port Alberni – Indigenous films, Bollywood films, with a cultural experience attached (dancing, and maybe teaching the attendees some dance moves, etc). Birthday parties. Partnerships with local restaurants, cross promotion with the local live theatre company.
Tell us about yourself; how did you get your start in film exhibition?
Todd Patola: When I was 9 the family took a drive across Canada during summer vacation. In Manitoba I met my great uncle Mike. He worked as a traveling projectionist between the communities of Dauphin and Ashern. I have vivid memories of watching him listen for the bell on the film reel and syncing the two projectors to change reels. Ever since I have felt that there is a certain honour in ensuring people can share the experience of movie magic.
As a Director on the CMHA-PA board I continually look for viable social enterprises. When the opportunity to manage the Savoy became available it was a perfect fit with the vision, mission and needs of CMHA-PA.
Sue McGiveron: When I was younger, we often went and saw movies like Bambi and Dumbo in the theatre and it was a special experience as we sat in awe watching the screen. We’d also go to the Surrey, BC, drive-in and watch the first movie and then we’d get tucked in our sleeping bags in the camper as Mom and Dad watched the other features. Birthday parties often included going to a movie. I remember going to see the Blues Brothers at a single screen in Langley, BC when it came out and we had so much fun!
Fast forward many years and I moved to PEI and I ran the box office at the Harbourfront Theatre (live theatre) in Summerside and then managed, helped book live acts and create festivals at the Celtic Performing Arts Centre at The College of Piping, also in Summerside. My favourite thing about working in the theatre industry is seeing the anticipatory excitement on people’s (especially children) as they come in ahead of the show and then the smiles as they leave, happy that they have attended a great show!
When this opportunity came to CMHA-PA, I knew that I wanted to be involved and make the theatre a place that people want to go, hang out with their friends and enjoy something special up on the big screen!
