The iconic River Oaks Theatre marquee will be lit up for the first time in three years. The lighting ceremony Sept. 9 marks the countdown and celebration of the imminent reopening of the cherished Houston landmark.

A long time coming

The River Oaks Theatre closed in 2021 due to lease complications, and the fate of the 85-year-old landmark ended up in the hands of Culinary Khancepts, an affiliate of Star Cinema Grill, in 2022. The company announced in May 2023 that it would begin making renovations and upgrades to the theatre.

“This project holds a special place in our hearts,” President of Culinary Khancepts Omar Khan said. “As the only Houston-owned and operated cinema chain, and with a deep connection to the city, we were uniquely positioned to preserve this historic theatre. We are incredibly proud and grateful to have played a role in saving such a cherished venue. It would have been unthinkable for Houston to lose this beloved art house."

The newly restored theatre will officially reopen its doors to the community in early October.


What's changed?

Renovations made to the theatre include the installation of a new roof and a full kitchen that will provide food and cocktails.

The theatre also now has improved theater seats that are more spacious and can recline. Khan invites movie buffs to be a part of the theatre's history by participating in the Name-A-Seat program, where residents can personalize a plaque on one of the theatre chairs.

A special membership program will also launch with the opening of the theatre. Cinema Savant will allow guests to watch unlimited film screenings for a monthly fee.


One more thing

The newly renovated River Oaks Theatre will offer a mix of independent, arthouse and classic films, alongside live performances and blockbusters hits.

The grand opening Oct. 3 will feature "Joker: Folie a Deux," a sequel to the original "Joker." The theatre will host special event screenings such as the 50th anniversary screening of "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre," a screening of the "Rocky Horror Picture Show" and a showing of the Houston's all-female football team documentary," The Herricanes."

Guests can start purchasing tickets online now and view the full schedule of events on the theatre's website.