Designed by Winnipeg architect Max Zev Blankstein, this 600-seat theatre on Edwards Avenue in The Pas was built in late 1929 by contractor John George Hartmier of Roblin, at a cost of about $43,000, for Auguste “Irish” Rivalin (1883-1964) and his Northern Theatres Limited. Interior work, furnishings, and equipment raised the total cost to about $105,000. The Lido opened as the first theatre in western Canada designed specifically for movies with sound.
The building’s auditorium, stairwells, projection booth, dressing rooms, and orchestra pit remained intact after it closed.
The building was destroyed by an arson fire on 8 April 2024.
Lido Theatre (1932)
Source: Harry Easton Collection, Flin Flon Heritage Project
Lido Theatre (September 2007)
Source: August Rivalin
Lido Theatre (July 2021)
Source: George Penner
Lido Theatre (July 2023)
Source: Jordan Makichuk
Lido Theatre (October 2023)
Source: Glen Toews
Lido Theatre after a fire (April 2024)
Source: Lindsey Bylo
Interior of the Lido Theatre (2011)
Source: August Rivalin
Former site of the Lido Theatre (April 2024)
Source: Lindsey Bylo
Former site of the Lido Theatre (June 2024)
Source: Kerrin AsmundsonSite Location (lat/long): N53.82467, W101.25253
denoted by symbol on the map above
See also:
Memorable Manitobans: Max Zev Blankstein (1874-1931)
Memorable Manitobans: John George Hartmier (1875-1949)
“Contracts awarded,” Winnipeg Tribune, 21 September 1929, page 32.
Obituaries and burial transcriptions, Manitoba Genealogical Society.
Lido Theatre, Cinema Treasures.
“Fire destroys historic movie theatre in The Pas, Manitoba” by Darren Bernhardt, CBC News, 9 April 2024.
We thank August Rivalin, George Penner, Jordan Makichuk, Glen Toews, Lindsey Bylo, Darren Bernhardt, and Kerrin Asmundson for providing information used here.
This page was prepared by Gordon Goldsborough.
Page revised: 1 July 2024
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