Located at the southwest corner of Whyte Avenue and 109 Street, the Varscona Theatre was a standout of Edmonton’s mid-century design. Created by architects Rule, Wynn, and Rule, it was built to compete directly with the Garneau Theatre, and to open first. With its rounded marquee accented by sleek speed lines, a dramatic finned tower that cleverly hid the air-conditioning intake, and a bold circular window set into crisp white stucco, the Varscona exemplified the Moderne architectural style.
Opened on July 7, 1940 by Suburban Theatres, also owners of the Avenue and Roxy, the times: from first-run films to international cinema and art-house programming, complete with coffee, baked treats, and foreign film posters that elevated the movie-going experience. But despite passionate local support, the theatre closed and was demolished in 1987 to make way for commercial redevelopment.
This photograph from 1959 preserves the Varscona during its golden era, a beloved neighbourhood landmark that brought glamour, storytelling, and community to Whyte Avenue.
