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A historic entertainment venue that had once faced an uncertain future is purportedly slated to open its doors again to the public later this year, Houston-based media outlets reported.
Under new ownership, the River Oaks Theater, famous for being one of the most popular places to catch a movie, will see new life as a dinner-and-a-show type of establishment.
Houston FOX affiliate KRIV reported that hospitality group Culinary Khancepts, which assumed control of the theater’s lease in 2022, plans to remake it while staying true to its roots.
The station reported that construction is expected to commence soon.
"We are honored to bring back one of Houston’s most iconic entertainment venues,” River Oaks Theater President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Omar Khan said, per KRIV. “The River Oaks Theater will not only offer the best of art house films, but will also bring live performances to the venue for theatre arts enthusiasts to enjoy.
“We felt as Houston’s only owned-and-operated cinema companies that it was our duty to save this masterpiece,” Khan continued. “We look forward to serving our community with the best-in-class cinema experiences."
According to Houston CBS affiliate KHOU, the original incarnation of the River Oaks Theater closed in 2021 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and failed negotiations with the landowner, stoking fears among Houstonians that the Art Deco facility could meet a wrecking ball.
The revived theater is expected to have upgrades such as a new roof, a full kitchen and “carefully curated” drink selection.
Houston NBC affiliate KPRC reported that aside from a slew of physical changes, the 84-year-old theater will also be known by a new name, “RO LEO.”
The station reported the project comes with a $5 million price tag.
Citing a press release from Culinary Khancepts, KPRC reported that the venue’s existing seats will be sold in an effort to “support historic buildings” and give the community “a piece of its history.”