Rivoli Theatre

LouisRugani on May 11, 2010 at 8:16 pm

(From ‘Boomers!’, Feb. 2010)
Cedarburg’s Retro Rivoli Draws Mainstreet Raves
by Kellie Huber

In 1889, Boerner’s dry goods store was built in the heart of downtown Cedarburg. When business waned, a Milwaukee movie mogul assigned the storefront a new identity and opened the building as a cinema in January 1936. The Rivoli, located at W62 N567 Washington Avenue in Cedarburg has been a movie venue ever since.

Although the Rivoli had been operated by Marcus Theatres for many years, Marcus decided not to renew its lease in 2006, an action which would force the 250-seat single screen theatre to close. Many residents felt the charm of their quaint town would suffer without the cinema. Public opinion prevailed, and the Cedarburg Landmarks Preservation Society (CLPS), a small Cedarburg non-profit group, committed to restore the building to its former glory.

Approximately $1,000,000 was spent to purchase and restore the building. Many professionals and craftsmen donated services and materials, while individuals, foundations and community organizations donated nearly $600,000. As the restoration continues, people continue to donate, showing overwhelming support for the project.

Opening in January 2007, ticket prices were reduced to $3, and tickets are only $2 on Tuesdays. In addition, concession prices were cut in half. The new business model included a commitment to family entertainment, meaning that R-rated films are not shown. Typical Rivoli fare includes animated cartoons, romantic comedies, and classics, among other films that are appropriate for all ages.

Over 900 people from Cedarburg and the surrounding area form the volunteer work force. Although a professional projectionist is paid each day to operate the theatre, four to six volunteers per show manage all ticket sales and concessions. Seven p.m. showings are offered daily and matinees are offered on Saturday and Sunday. Sell-outs are common Saturday and Tuesday nights.

The revised plan has been a hit with the public. Attendance reached 22,000 in 2007, jumped to 36,000 in 2008 and exceeded 48,000 for 2009. As a result of this initial success, the CLPS has undertaken plans for the 2010 restoration of the auditorium.

The retro Rivoli has beaten the odds. Established in a renovated storefront, abandoned by its parent company, and then lovingly restored by local residents – this local treasure will continue to draw young and old alike for many years to come.

Patsy on October 12, 2009 at 7:03 pm

This amazing exterior is Vitrolite done by Tim Dunn, Vitrolite specialist located in St. Louis MO.

Darrel Wood on November 23, 2007 at 5:31 pm

The current website is :
http://www.rivoliofcedarburg.com/

Juanaquena on April 25, 2007 at 5:29 pm

The web site for the organization now operating the Rivoli in Cedarburg is: http://www.revivetherivoli.org