HOUSTON, TX - In the heart of Houston, a beloved landmark has risen from the ashes of time. The River Oaks Theatre, a stunning piece of architectural history that first opened its doors in 1939, celebrated its grand reopening on October 3rd, after a two-year closure. Now 85 years old, this iconic venue has undergone a remarkable transformation under the care of Houston-based Culinary Khancepts, known for their Star Cinema Grill and Reel Luxury Cinema chains.
As patrons stepped inside, they were greeted by the familiar aroma of freshly popped popcorn, a comforting reminder of the theater’s storied past. The newly renovated space boasts three state-of-the-art auditoriums, each equipped with advanced sound and projection systems. Guests can indulge in in-seat food service and enjoy the inviting bar areas, all while being enveloped in the historic charm that has made the River Oaks Theatre a cherished gathering spot for decades.
Over the last fifty years, this theater has become synonymous with arthouse and repertory films, hosting midnight screenings of cult classics like "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," which are set to make a triumphant return. The weeks leading up to the opening night were a flurry of activity, as staff prepared for the momentous occasion that would breathe new life into this Houston gem.
“It’s very exciting. It’s very overwhelming and the amount of emotion into this from the public at large in the City of Houston and how many people have stories and connections to the River Oaks Theatre makes it even more special that we got to this day,” said Jason Ostrow, Vice-President of Development for Culinary Khancepts, expressing the immense pride felt by the team involved.
Among the excited crowd was David Purdie, a local resident proudly wearing his “Friends of the River Oaks Theatre” shirt. His joy was palpable as he stated, “I’m a native of the neighborhood…I can’t believe that it’s reopening tonight.”
For newcomers Adrian Davila and Hannah Solomon, the opening night was a serendipitous discovery. “We saw tickets online and (we) thought it would be cool to come opening night,” said Davila, while Solomon added, “We think it’s a nice addition to the neighborhood.”
Behind the scenes, Arthouse Houston, a nonprofit organization founded in 2021, has worked tirelessly to cultivate audiences and partnerships, ensuring the River Oaks Theatre remains in the public eye and heart. “I’m very excited about having done the work to sound the alarm, save the theatre, doing the work to help program big, exciting, fun, dynamic things to keep the theatre in the hearts and minds of the press, city government, and the community,” stated Maureen McNamara, the co-founder and director of Arthouse Houston.
Michelle Mowers, a board member with Arthouse Houston and a filmmaker, echoed the sentiment, marveling at the theater’s survival. “This is absolutely amazing. It’s a miracle this theatre is here, still after all these years and having been threatened so many times over the years. It’s really a miracle this theatre is here, it’s standing, and it’s still showing incredible arthouse films,” she remarked.
As the curtains lifted on opening night, the River Oaks Theatre was not just a place to watch films; it was a testament to the power of community and preservation. This historic venue, now revitalized, promises to continue its legacy as a cultural hub for Houston, reminding everyone of the magic that cinema can bring. With its doors wide open once again, the River Oaks Theatre invites everyone to be a part of its ongoing story.
