Community Cinema at the Legion Takes an Exciting Step Forward

What started as a pop-up movie night has just taken a major step toward becoming a true community cinema venue. Thanks to growing public support and new community investment, the Qualicum Beach Multi-Use Cinema Society is now entering the next phase of its journey toward a purpose-built, multi-use community cinema.

We are thrilled to announce that the Society has been awarded two significant grants that will help transform our screenings at the Legion into a more permanent and professional cinema experience. We have received a $2,000 grant from the Springford Family Foundation toward the installation of a fixed cinema screen at the Legion, along with a $3,500 grant from the Parksville Qualicum Community Foundation toward a fixed speaker system for the venue.

These upgrades are supported through our Memorandum of Understanding with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 76, which allows the Society to invest in fixed equipment while retaining the flexibility to relocate that equipment in the future, when a permanent cinema venue is established. This partnership approach allows us to improve the audience experience now, expand programming opportunities, and continue building toward our long-term vision in a thoughtful and financially responsible way.

The improvements will help us broaden the range of programming we can offer, including a youth film series, documentary programming, and more "event cinema" presentations such as theatre, opera, concerts, and special cultural screenings. Step by step, we are building the foundations of what a vibrant community cinema can bring to the region year-round.

We are deeply grateful to the Legion for its ongoing partnership, flexibility, and commitment to supporting community life in Qualicum Beach. We encourage our audiences and supporters to support the Legion in return by becoming members and enjoying their welcoming bar, patio, and beautiful garden space during the summer months. The Legion is an important gathering place in our community, and we are proud to be building this next chapter together.

There will be more news to share over the coming months as venue development plans continue to move forward. This is an exciting milestone for the Society - and for everyone who believes our community deserves a vibrant, year-round cinema experience.