DUNBAR THEATRE

Written by Sarah Gordon (August 2022)

Vancouver’s Iconic Movie Theatre

There has never been a question that Dunbar is a very special community, which is confirmed by the neighbourhood’s support of Dunbar Theatre. On the landscape of full-time independent movie houses, the theatre is a sole survivor; it is the last of its kind in the city of Vancouver.

Dunbar Theatre was built in 1935 by J. Howard Boothe; he ran it until 1941 when Odeon bought the theatre and made it part of a nationwide chain. It closed between 1987-1988 and then was taken over by Famous Players for approximately ten years. Once again, it closed, and this time it seemed destined to be demolished; however, the community adamantly rejected plans for redevelopment.

Ken Charko, Owner of Dunbar Theatre

@sandrasteierphotography

In February 1998, three university students, including entrepreneur Ken Charko, the present-day owner of Dunbar Theatre, approached the property owner and requested permission to operate the theatre as a summer project. Soon after, Ken leased the building and brought Hollywood magic back to Dunbar as the theatre’s new independent owner. Eight years later, he also became the operator of Varsity Theatre on West 10th Avenue, which closed in 2006 due to redevelopment.

Neighbourhood theatres are in a high-risk category – they are costly to run, leases can be expensive, buildings are located in prime locations where real estate is sought-after and independent theatres are in competition with multiplex cinemas and streaming services. But this is a happy story, a success story, and the Dunbar, as the theatre is fondly referred to, has stood the test of time.

Over the last 87 years, many memories have been made at the Dunbar.

From first kisses to first dates to the first time you brought your kids to your childhood stomping ground, there is a feeling of history in the air from this building that opened during the Great Depression. If walls could talk, they would have as many tales to tell as the stories on the big screen.

The COVID-19 pandemic introduced entirely new challenges, but Ken responded creatively. To his credit, he says the theatre didn’t close, not even for a day, something he says no other theatre in North America managed to achieve. As a result, Ken and the Dunbar Theatre were recognized by the Motion Picture Association for resilience, creativity, and leadership. Way to go, Dunbar Theatre!

People kept coming during the height of COVID. The Dunbar held socially distanced private screenings for families and small groups. People came from across the Lower Mainland to support their beloved movie theatre.

Ken says, “The safety of our customers and staff was our number one priority. We followed provincial guidelines and sold out our available seating daily. We also found other uses for the theatre, such as holding weddings for up to 30 people.”

Another draw was the Dunbar’s legendary buttery popcorn, which happens to be a secret recipe. Ken reveals, “We use real butter. I’m probably the biggest butter buyer in Vancouver. It’s all part of the experience of attending a movie.”

People drop by to purchase the best popcorn in town and to support the business. Some customers arrange for concession food to be delivered through

Skip the Dishes, Uber Eats and Door Dash. As well, sports teams and corporate groups purchase bulk popcorn for their fundraising events.

Krispy Kreme doughnuts are a fairly recent addition to the concession; they are sold on weekends. With a laugh, Ken says, “It’s a specific treat that is not available in Vancouver. The only reason we might not continue selling them is because I have gained six pounds and so have some of my staff!”

The 350-seat theatre rotates first-run films that generally show for two weeks. Ken opts primarily for family-friendly movies, reflective of this community’s movie-going audience.

Some of the things people love about the iconic theatre include its incredibly comfy and roomy seats, ample leg room, and the charming old-fashioned balcony.

Moviegoers also appreciate the Dunbar’s friendly staff; some have been with the theatre for 20 years. Ken says, “I’m lucky because we have good staff retention. I’m really proud of my ‘kids.’ They are thankful we stayed open. They didn’t want to stop working, and we are better off for having done it.”

Are you aware it is possible to hold a private birthday party, or corporate or customer appreciation events at the Dunbar? A full-screen experience blows even the best home media room experience out of the water.

If you are a new mother craving a romantic comedy or drama, Movies for Mommies is designed for you. This program was put on hold during the pandemic but recently resumed.

To save money while catching a great flick, round up your family and friends for Cheap Tuesday. All seats are a mere $9.50. This fall a discount will be introduced on Wednesday nights for people aged 50+.

What’s up next for the Dunbar? Ken is excited to launch a much-anticipated film festival that got put on hold during the pandemic.

The festival kicks off with films from Greece (September 30 to October 2), followed by the Philippines (October 3 to 5) and Ukraine (October 6).

Ken is a councillor candidate in the October 15 Vancouver civic election; he intends to be a voice for small businesses. He says, “They need support so they can survive. I believe theatres and mom and pop shops are important parts of the community.”

For Ken, the theatre is a labour of love. It is his passion for films and for this community that drives him to keep operating it. He is devoted to the neighbourhood and is committed to giving back. He says, “We are a large donor to Canuck Place, and we have donated to almost every organization and event in Dunbar.”

Ken concludes, “Being the owner of Dunbar Theatre defines who I am. I’ve got the greatest job.”

Dunbar Theatre

4555 Dunbar Street

Vancouver BC V6S 2G7

Phone 604-222-2991