Kimco Realty has signed a lease with River Oaks Theatre, an affiliate of Star Cinema Grill in Houston, and plans to preserve the theatre’s history and Art Deco design, as well as its name, River Oaks Theatre, while also enhancing the cinema experience with a focus on unmatched hospitality, high-quality food and beverages, flawless presentation, and other cutting-edge theatre amenities.
“We are excited about our relationship with Kimco and the many other new partnerships that will play a vital role in the long-term success of the River Oaks Theatre,” says Omar Khan, president & CEO, River Oaks Theatre. “Being a part of the Houston community is something we take great pride in, and as the only locally owned and operated movie theatre group, we feel very fortunate to further expand our roots within our hometown.”
The River Oaks Theatre plans to operate as an arthouse cinema, paying homage to the theatre’s rich history with classic features such as The Rocky Horror Picture Show and hosting various film festivals, ensuring that Houston movie buffs old and new will still have access to this important cinematic gem.
“We are thrilled to have found an operator who shares our passion for the history of this theatre, appreciates our vision for this shopping center, and truly understands the River Oaks community and the desires of its residents,” said Andrew Bell, vice president of leasing for Kimco Realty. “This deal is a building block for the ongoing evolution of the River Oaks Shopping Center. We are incredibly pleased with the progress we’ve made to date, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with the City of Houston and the community of River Oaks as we invest in and reposition this flagship asset for future generations of Houstonians.”
“The River Oaks Theatre is a historical and cultural pillar in the city of Houston. We are pleased and grateful that with the help of the city, all parties were able to come together to ensure Houstonians will once again have their favorite and most treasured theatre back open soon,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. “I thank Kimco, Omar Khan, Friends of the River Oaks Theatre and all the cinema lovers for coming together to save this cherished landmark.”
“After a solid year’s effort to save this architectural and cultural landmark, our community-based nonprofit group, Friends of the River Oaks Theatre, is eager to assist Kimco and the new River Oaks Theatre team in preserving the theatre’s value to the Houston arts community,” said Maureen McNamara, community member and Friends of the River Oaks Theatre spokesperson. “This is a gift to Houston’s cultural center, and as true friends of the theatre, we are in this for the long haul. We look forward to applying our knowledge of the film community and of historic and independent cinemas to collaborate with all involved on our shared vision for the theatre’s bright future.”
“So many of us grew up watching timeless films at the River Oaks Theatre – it’s the last of its kind in Houston,” said Houston City Councilwoman Abbie Kamin. “A lot went into ensuring the preservation of the theatre for future generations. From the unwavering commitment of residents, the organizing of Friends of River Oaks Theatre, to Mayor Turner's involvement and support of our efforts. We have a committed partner in Kimco who sees the theatre for what it is – a historic treasure that will inspire Houstonians for years to come.”
Kimco Realty www.kimcorealty.com