Arts & Culture

Historic Theatre to Host Classic Film Marathon

Edmonton’s Princess Theatre is set to screen a week-long lineup of iconic films, from Golden Age Hollywood to Canadian cult favourites, drawing cinephiles from across the province.

By By Hannah Reid • 2025-08-03

One of Edmonton’s most beloved cultural landmarks, the Princess Theatre, is preparing to host a week-long classic film marathon that will bring timeless cinema back to the big screen. The event, set to begin next month, will feature a curated selection of films from Hollywood’s Golden Age alongside Canadian cult favourites.

The theatre, which first opened in 1915, has long been a hub for independent and art-house cinema in the city. Its ornate architecture and intimate setting make it a favourite destination for film lovers seeking a more nostalgic movie-going experience.

Manager Sophie Lang says the marathon is designed to celebrate the enduring magic of cinema while introducing younger audiences to films they might never have seen in theatres. “There’s something special about watching these movies the way they were meant to be seen—on a big screen, surrounded by other film lovers,” she said.

The lineup includes classics like “Casablanca,” “Singin’ in the Rain,” and “North by Northwest,” as well as homegrown gems such as “Mon Oncle Antoine” and the quirky 1980s Edmonton-set comedy “Bye Bye Blues.” Screenings will be accompanied by brief introductions from local film historians and critics.

In addition to the main screenings, the theatre will host themed costume nights, trivia contests, and live musical performances inspired by the films. The goal, Lang says, is to create an immersive experience that goes beyond simply watching the movies.

The event has already attracted strong interest, with advance ticket sales exceeding expectations. Local businesses along Whyte Avenue are preparing special promotions to coincide with the festival, hoping to draw in both cinephiles and casual visitors.

Proceeds from the marathon will go toward restoring some of the theatre’s historic features, including its original marquee and decorative plasterwork. Lang says the renovations will help preserve the building’s charm for future generations while ensuring it remains a vibrant part of Edmonton’s arts scene.

Tickets for the Princess Theatre’s Classic Film Marathon are available online and at the box office. Organizers recommend booking early, as several screenings are expected to sell out.