530 Columbia Street
Burr Theatre/Columbia Cinemas (1927)

The Columbia Theatre, designed by architects Townley and Matheson (best known for designing Vancouver City Hall), was built in 1927 as a motion picture theatre. The structure is concrete and frame, with two storeys and a basement. The exterior features Moorish details and several Juliet balconies on the upper facade. The street level entry was extensively altered in the 1970's when the building was converted into a twin cinema, but the upper facade details are well preserved. In 1987, the Fraternal Order of Eagles purchased the building for their meetings and activities. In 1994 a not-for-profit society was formed with the intention of purchasing the building and transforming it into a performing arts centre named in honour of Raymond Burr. The society has since secured an option to purchase the building and will continue to raise funds for the project.

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