Rio Theatre
1439 Main Street,
Sweet Home,
OR
97386
1439 Main Street,
Sweet Home,
OR
97386
1 person
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In 2018 a small second auditorium seating 43 was created dubbed “The Roxy” in honor of the town’s first theatre.
We just moved to town and my son and I walk to the Rio to watch Rio 2 today was a very hot day and my six year old took a water bottle. Upon walking up to buy our tickets some old guy who I think owns the place said can’t you read. I looked down and being 40 years old I knew there must by a no drink or outside food sign he must be talking about. I said it’s just water and we can dump it out no problem , and he said no containers allowed. At that point I lost my head, whatever happen to customer service, who doesn’t sneak candy and such into movies give me a break it’s a water bottle sir you are a jackass. Please don’t give these people your hard eared money they are not worthy. It’s a shame to because I really liked the old place and cheap prices, but now they will never see one cent from my family and friends.
The Rio suffered some water damage on Dec. 5th 2013, one of the biggest snowstorms to hit the Willamette Valley. The lobby, concession area and bathrooms were all damaged. However, the auditorium and the new digital projector were spared. It appears they have made all the repairs and is open again this Friday Jan. 31st.
A few 2011 photo can be seen here, here and here.
Oh I was just curious. Dad “ Bud Brown” had sold the Rio, I think in 1975 I was in the 7th grade I remembered that we had a lot of stuff under there. We moved to Lebanon where he managed the Motor Vu, the Khun and the Santiam Drive inn.
Mie is Mike
When I bought the building and the building, it was pretty baron as fr as collectables go. Since then I have accumulated 1200-1500? posters and 50 complete 35mm movies. I also have some old new lamp housing bulbs, misc parts for motograph projectors, spare platter system, and a lot more vintage and collectable items. I am trying to include these item in an on the sale of the theatre, to allow a new owner with a ready ebay business. I have too much stuff and can be overpowering to someone that is new to the business. I accumulate stuff where ever I am and am having to “clean house” at th theatre and at my home. Thanks for the question. Mie
Just wondering was there anythings still under the old stage?
Live the retirement dream in beautiful Sweet Home Oregon. Foster Lake and the Cascade Mountains beckon as you aspire for the perfect retirement scenario. Own a fun, part time entertainment business in a small town and live in the apartment upstairs. The single screen Rio Theatre for sale on Main ST. in Sweet Home, Oregon. Enjoy providing the community with first run, family oriented movies Friday through Sunday, then take the rest of the week off! Local community events, special showings, and/or daily movie showings are at your command. This is the perfect opportunity to make a modest income but still enjoy leisure time. Look us up at riotheatreinc.com. $295,000. 541-401-3500.
Does anyone have photos from the mid 60’s to 1975? My dad, Bud Brown owned it at that time and I cant find any pictures of it. Other than one of dad sitting at the ticket both. The sign behind him read Adults – $1.25
Studens – .75
I remember dad would give free popcorn to the families that he new didnt have much money.
He later went on to manage the Santiam Drive in, the Motor Vu drive in and the Kuhn theater.
Thanks, Todd Brown
i am interested in renting this theater for my wedding in may of 2011. please let me know if this is possible.
-Chelsea Watts
Here is another photo:
http://tinyurl.com/ydsr4nn
Thanks Mike:
I saw your ad in Boxoffice. I would need all kinds of help financing a purchase. While I have the experience and the vision I am not a man of means and have little net worth. Good luck with your sale and your health. You are in my prayers.
Bob Allen..Please give me a call. There is so much business, equipment, inventory, the apartment, etc., etc., to talk about.
First of all I cannot consider a lease-option, however I will drastically reduce the price of the building, land, and then everything else. Again if still interested please give me a call.
Hi Mike:
Sorry to hear of your problem. I saw your theatre a few months ago and was impressed with it. I am an “old showman” who started in the business as a young teen in 1945 and have owned and operated theatres in California, Oregon and Washington. I have a passion to return to the trade with a “family friendly” cinema. Sweethome would put us closer to our children. We currently live in Phoenix, OR (a Medford suburb). Is the theatre still available. If so would you consider a lease-option?
Mike,
I might be interested in the old posters, would you be willing to sell them seperately? If so, please email me
Don Kirk never contacted me on a purchase of this theater. I am now forced to sell because of failing kidneys. I am selling the land, building, equipment,inventory, corporation,collections of old posters, movies and vintage equipment. If you are interested please call me. thankyou
Last November (2005), (the RIO’s Owner) Mike told me that he wanted to sell the theater this year (2006). I’m President of the American Theatre Development Corporation; and our Executive V-P and International radio talk-show-host Richard Beattie, will soon contact Mike to see if we can work-out a purchase of the RIO.
Mike has added a small events stage in front of the screen; but there’s room behind, to add a full stage onto the back of the building; which we will do, if we end up owning it.
Don Kirk