The RIO never seemed to reach the status of her sister up the street, the DEL MAR. It was sort of seedy and we kids called it the flea bag. I would have gone there from 1948-1953 and usually to a Saturday matinee where for 20 cents you got two feature films, usually “B” westerns, a serial (one was ROCKET MAN as I recall), the news and at least 10 cartoons.
Grew up in San Leandro and have the fondest memories of the Del Mar. It was very popular with the high school set. On any given Friday or Saturday night, they would sell more tickets that seats and many would be sitting on the balcony aisles! And the “Usherettes” with the Art Modern uniforms with baggy pants and the ever present flashlight which was used to get your attention should you be just a little too loud. It was a great place for date..used to walk to and fro and never worry. Then there was the donut shop next door that had an automatic donut making machine in the window. Used to watch that thing seeminly for hours. Would love to see some photos of the Del Mar if anyone wants to share.
Frank
The RIO never seemed to reach the status of her sister up the street, the DEL MAR. It was sort of seedy and we kids called it the flea bag. I would have gone there from 1948-1953 and usually to a Saturday matinee where for 20 cents you got two feature films, usually “B” westerns, a serial (one was ROCKET MAN as I recall), the news and at least 10 cartoons.
Grew up in San Leandro and have the fondest memories of the Del Mar. It was very popular with the high school set. On any given Friday or Saturday night, they would sell more tickets that seats and many would be sitting on the balcony aisles! And the “Usherettes” with the Art Modern uniforms with baggy pants and the ever present flashlight which was used to get your attention should you be just a little too loud. It was a great place for date..used to walk to and fro and never worry. Then there was the donut shop next door that had an automatic donut making machine in the window. Used to watch that thing seeminly for hours. Would love to see some photos of the Del Mar if anyone wants to share.
Frank