#Industry News
Patricia Theatre
A Century of Cinema
Since its opening in 1913, the Patricia Theatre has stood as a cornerstone of British Columbia's Sunshine Coast community. As the longest-running movie theatre in Canada, it has witnessed the film industry's evolution while preserving its unique charm.
The Patricia Theatre underwent a major restoration in recent years to ensure its continued operation. Thanks to generous community support, the theatre was equipped with a state-of-the-art digital projection system, Dolby Sound, new seating, and central air conditioning. These upgrades have preserved the theatre's historic ambience while providing modern amenities for audiences.
The Patricia Theatre’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to bridge the gap between the past and the present. Ferco Seating produced Paragon 538 to complement its historic architecture, offering a modern twist on classic comfort. A total of 236 seats featured fixed backrests and iconic red leatherette upholstery echo the theatre’s vintage charm, a nod to the tradition of luxury and sophistication associated with cinema. The tip-up seat provide additional legroom and flexibility, allowing for easier entry and exit. The seats are ergonomically designed for optimal comfort during extended viewing sessions, ensuring audiences enjoy the Patricia Theatre’s timeless ambience during performance while savoring modern cinema’s comforts.
As Gary Shilling, Executive Director of the Qathet Film Society, Patricia Theatre shares, "Happy to report that everyone loves them! Thanks for supporting our decision-making process and helping us get here. It's certainly reviving interest in our little gem of a theatre." Ferco Seating is proud to have played a role in bringing this historic theatre back to life by providing high-quality seating solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.